Titus 2:6 – “Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
Paul now turns his attention to young men. Just like he gave instructions for older men, older women, and younger women, here he tells Titus to speak directly to the younger men. And though it’s only a short verse, it packs a serious punch. Paul tells Titus to “encourage the young men to be self-controlled.” That’s it-just one command, but it touches every part of life.
Self-control means having the discipline to say no to sin, to manage emotions, to make wise choices, and to resist the urge to live only for pleasure or personal gain. For young men, who often face strong temptations and pressures, this one trait is absolutely essential. Without self-control, everything else can fall apart. With it, a man can grow into someone trustworthy, godly, and steady.
Paul’s instruction to “encourage” shows that young men don’t need to be scolded or looked down on-they need guidance, support, and strong, godly role models like Titus to help them grow.
Historical Context
In first-century Crete, where Titus was doing ministry, the culture didn’t expect much from young men in terms of self-discipline. In fact, it encouraged wild living-chasing after money, power, pleasure, and reputation. Many young men likely lived for themselves, without thinking about the future or the impact of their choices.
Paul wanted the Christian church to be different. Young men weren’t to follow the world’s example-they were to grow up into mature, responsible, faithful followers of Christ. That kind of life required self-control-not just for the sake of their own souls, but to show the watching world what a changed life looked like.
Also, it’s worth noting that Paul had already instructed Titus himself to be a model of good behavior (see verse 7), so this command wasn’t just something to preach-it was something to live out.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights the importance of personal discipline in the life of faith. It shows that God calls people-even the young-not just to believe the truth, but to live it out in real, practical ways.
Self-control is a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:23), meaning it’s something God produces in a believer’s life. That makes it more than just willpower-it’s a sign of God’s work in someone’s heart.
It also shows us that age doesn’t excuse anyone from living a holy life. Young men may have less experience, but they’re still called to walk in step with the Lord. They have the ability and responsibility to live lives that reflect God’s truth.
Literary Analysis
This verse is brief but intentional. The word “similarly” connects it to the earlier instructions given to other groups in the church. In the original Greek, the command to “encourage” implies an ongoing effort-it’s not a one-time talk but a regular part of mentoring and teaching.
Paul doesn’t give a long list here. Instead, he sums it all up in one powerful word: self-control. That word becomes a foundation for everything else. It’s as if Paul is saying, “If young men can learn this, everything else will follow.”
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Timothy 4:12 – “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers…”
- Proverbs 25:28 – “Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”
- Galatians 5:22-23 – Lists self-control as a fruit of the Spirit.
- 2 Peter 1:5-6 – Encourages believers to add to their faith goodness, knowledge, and self-control.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For young men today, this verse is just as relevant-maybe even more so. We live in a world full of distractions, temptations, and messages that say, “Do whatever feels good.” Self-control is not a popular virtue. But God still calls young men to live with discipline, purpose, and maturity.
This verse is a reminder that a strong life begins with self-control. It affects how you think, how you treat others, how you handle your body, your money, your time, and your relationships. It’s not about perfection, but direction-choosing daily to live in a way that honors God.
It also reminds the church that young men need encouragement, not just correction. They need mentors, teachers, and examples to walk alongside them-not just tell them what to do, but show them how.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in how He doesn’t leave us stuck in immaturity or sin. He gives clear direction and the strength to follow it. Telling young men to be self-controlled isn’t a burden-it’s a loving instruction meant to protect them from heartache and lead them into a life of peace and purpose.
God loves young men enough to call them higher-not to coast through life, but to step up and grow strong in character and faith. He provides His Spirit, His Word, and His people to help them along the way.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus lived the perfect example of self-control. He faced every temptation we face and never gave in (Hebrews 4:15). He kept His focus on doing the Father’s will, even when it meant suffering and death on the cross (Luke 22:42). His life was marked by obedience, restraint, humility, and power under control.
Through Jesus, believers-including young men-have the power to grow in self-control. As John 15:5 says, “apart from Me you can do nothing,” but when we remain in Him, we bear fruit-including the fruit of a disciplined, focused life.
Jesus also chose young men to be His disciples and trained them to follow Him. That same call continues today.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Why do you think Paul focused on self-control as the key trait for young men?
- What are some specific areas in life where young men today struggle with self-control?
- How can older Christians help encourage and guide younger men in this area?
- What does it look like to live a self-controlled life in a world that promotes self-indulgence?
- In what ways did Jesus show self-control, and how can His example help you today?