Titus 2:1-6
These instructions are an overall exhortation for the various age groups to hold to a sense of duty with regard to their conduct. But none of the instructions given here should be ignored simply because they are not addressed directly to an individual's sex or age group. For example, Paul says "girls should be discreet and modest." Does this mean, then, because it is addressed to girls that a fellow may be as indiscreet and immodest as he wants because he is male? Simply because the fellows are not mentioned does not excuse them from being discreet and modest as well. In an overall sense, God is telling all of us—parents, young people, male, female—to be sane, sober-thinking, serious about our responsibilities, exercising self-control, curbing our passions, and aiming for self-mastery.
There is a proverb that teaches: "He that rules his spirit is better than he who takes a city." Ruling one's spirit involves self-discipline. Self-discipline is willing yourself to do the right, regardless of feelings. It may not be glamorous, but it is the stuff of life.
John W. Ritenbaugh
Sanctification and the Teens
Sound doctrine encompasses more than a gospel about Christ; it is the gospel of Christ—what He taught, lived, and expects His followers to imitate. His doctrine forms the pattern of sound words, the body of truth once delivered to the saints, requiring a solid foundation to defend against constant false teaching. The instructions that follow exhort every age group and both sexes toward a sense of duty, urging all to be sober-minded, serious, self-controlled, and aiming for self-mastery. No instruction should be ignored merely because it addresses another group. "He that rules his spirit is better than he who takes a city," for ruling one's spirit involves self-discipline. God expects clear leadership and education from elders and older, experienced members, obligating both teachers and learners.