How does Titus 2:5 relate to Proverbs 31's depiction of a virtuous woman? The Call in Titus 2:5 “to be self-controlled, pure, keepers at home, kind, being subject to their own husbands, so that the word of God will not be slandered.” Portrait of the Proverbs 31 Woman “She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness… Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.” (Proverbs 31:27, 30) Where the Two Passages Meet • Self-controlled & Pure – Titus highlights moral discipline; Proverbs shows the same in her wise, measured speech (v. 26) and avoidance of idleness (v. 27). • Homemaker / Keeper at Home – Titus calls for faithful management of the household. – Proverbs 31 illustrates it: she rises early (v. 15), organizes servants (v. 15), plans finances (v. 16), and provides for winter (v. 21). • Kind – Titus names kindness; Proverbs 31 “opens her arms to the poor” (v. 20) and teaches with kindness (v. 26). • Submissive to Husband – Titus commands willing submission. – Proverbs 31 “does him good and not harm all the days of her life” (v. 12); her excellence advances her husband’s honor at the city gate (v. 23). • Gospel Witness / Public Testimony – Titus: these traits guard God’s word from slander. – Proverbs: her life produces public praise—husband, children, and community rise to bless her (vv. 28–31). Supporting Passages • 1 Peter 3:1-4—gentle, quiet spirit wins husbands “without a word.” • Ephesians 5:22-24—submission “as to the Lord.” • 1 Timothy 5:14—young women encouraged to “manage their homes.” • Proverbs 14:1—“The wise woman builds her house.” Putting It Together Titus 2:5 distills the virtues Proverbs 31 paints in full color. Both affirm that: 1. Godly character begins in the heart and radiates outward. 2. Faithful stewardship of the home is a sacred calling with broad influence. 3. A wife’s honor toward her husband reflects her honor toward Christ. 4. Kindness and service extend beyond family to the needy. 5. When these qualities flourish, God’s reputation is exalted before a watching world. Encouragement for Today The Titus 2:5 charge is not a burden but a blueprint for flourishing, echoing the timeless model of Proverbs 31. As the Spirit empowers, the same virtues can adorn modern homes, blessing families and showcasing the beauty of the gospel. |
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