Sermon: The Sacred Calling of Older Women
Text: Titus 2:3–5
Introduction
The Epistle to Titus was written with a specific, surgical purpose: to set in order what was remaining and to establish biblical structure within the local church (Titus 1:5). Paul understood that a healthy church is not merely built on administrative organization, but on the foundation of sound doctrine that translates into holy living.
In Chapter 2, Paul shifts from the qualifications of elders to the conduct of the congregation. He addresses five distinct groups, showing that the Gospel has practical implications for every stage of life. Today, we focus exclusively on one of the most vital, yet often overlooked, pillars of the church: the older women.
In the economy of God, "retirement" from spiritual service does not exist. Instead, maturity brings a heightened responsibility to embody the Gospel and pass it on to the next generation.
I. Reverence in Behavior: Living as in a Temple
Text: “The older women likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness...” (v. 3)
The Greek word used here for "reverent" is hieroprepés, which literally means "fitting for a sacred place" or "becoming of a priest."
• A Living Sacrifice: Paul is suggesting that the older woman should carry herself with the same gravity and sanctity as a priestess officiating in a temple. Her life is her liturgy.
• Constant Awareness: This reverence is not just for Sunday mornings; it is a "porte"—an entire manner of life. It implies living with a constant consciousness that she belongs to the Lord.
• The Power of Presence: When a woman lives with this kind of dignity, her very presence commands respect and points others toward the holiness of God.
Central Truth: Spiritual maturity is evidenced by a life that honors God through consistent, quiet dignity and reverence.
II. Guardians of the Tongue: Not Slanderers
Text: “...not false accusers...” (v. 3)
Paul specifically warns against the sin of the tongue. The Greek word for "false accuser" is diabolos—the same word used for the Devil.
• The Satanic Nature of Gossip: When we slander or spread rumors, we are acting like the "Accuser of the Brethren." Gossip is not a "small sin"; it is a destructive force that ruins reputations and divides the Body of Christ.
• The Intent of the Heart: Even if a report is factually true, sharing it with a malicious intent or a spirit of "idle talk" (1 Timothy 5:13) is a sin.
• The Pious Alternative: The godly older woman uses her words to heal, to counsel, and to protect the unity of the church.
Central Truth: A godly woman builds up the community with her words; she does not tear it down with her tongue.
III. Sovereignty of Spirit: Not Enslaved to Wine
Text: “...not given to much wine...” (v. 3)
In the ancient world, as in the modern one, the temptation to find "comfort" in substances was real. Paul calls for sobriety and self-control.
• The Bondage of Vice: To be "given to" or "enslaved" to wine indicates a lack of self-mastery. Any addiction clouds the judgment and prevents a woman from fulfilling her spiritual duties.
• Spiritual Discernment: A mind clouded by substance cannot discern the will of God or offer wise counsel (Proverbs 31:4–5).
• A Stumbling Block: The older woman must be an example. Her freedom in Christ is never used as a license for excess that might cause a younger believer to stumble (Romanos 14:21).
Central Truth: Christian liberty is best expressed through self-control and a blameless testimony.
IV. Teachers of What is Good
Text: “...teachers of good things;” (v. 3)
The older women are called to be kalodidaskalos—instructors of that which is noble, excellent, and beautiful.
• The Sphere of Ministry: While the public preaching of the Word is reserved for the elders, the older women have a massive, indispensable ministry in the private and relational spheres of the church.
• Instruction by Example: The most profound "teaching" an older woman does is through the consistency of her own life. She teaches "the good" by living "the good."
• Wisdom and Discretion: Her teaching is marked by the quiet wisdom that comes from years of walking with the Lord.
Central Truth: An older woman fulfills her calling when she intentionally transmits biblical values through both her speech and her life.
V. The Mentorship Mandate: Training the Next Generation
Text: “That they may teach the young women...” (vv. 4–5)
A. The Nature of the Training
The word "teach" here (sōphronízō) means to "bring to one's senses" or to "train in sobriety and prudence." It is a discipleship of the mind and heart.
B. The Content of the Curriculum
Paul outlines a specific "curriculum" for the home:
1. To Love Their Husbands: A love marked by respect and the fulfillment of the marital covenant.
2. To Love Their Children: A love that includes nurture, discipline, and spiritual guidance.
3. To Be Discreet and Chaste: Maintaining purity in thought and conduct.
4. To Be Homemakers: Being diligent and "workers at home," finding the home to be the primary mission field.
5. To Be Good: Exhibiting kindness and a gentle spirit in all responsibilities.
6. To Be Obedient to Their Husbands: Honoring the divine order of headship within the family.
C. The Ultimate Purpose
“...that the word of God be not blasphemed.” This is the "Why." When a Christian home is in disarray, or when women do not live out these virtues, it gives the world a reason to mock the Gospel. Our lives are the greatest defense—or the greatest detraction—of the Word of God.
See Also
- The School of Christ: What to Unlearn and What to Master
- How Iniquity Separates Us from God
- How to Triumph: Finding Victory in the Christian Struggle
Conclusion
The "Aged Women" are not the "retired" members of the church; they are the spiritual backbone of the community. God has given you a high and holy calling. Your silver hair is a crown of glory when found in the way of righteousness (Proverbs 16:31).
May the older women of this church embrace this mandate, living as "temple-dwellers," guarding their tongues, mastering their desires, and pouring their lives into the generation that follows, so that the Word of God may be honored in every home.
