What does Titus 2:5 mean?

In verse 5, Paul instructs young women in godly living. He focuses on five specific areas. First, young women are to be "self-controlled," or "sensible," a trait also expected of older men in verse 2. Second, they were to be "pure." This trait, highly valued by Paul, is mentioned three times in Titus 1:15. Third, young women were to be "busy at home," or "homemakers." The phrase does not prohibit women working another job, or working outside the home. Rather, it highlights the critical value women have in caring for the home. Some women in Crete were likely known for being lazy (Titus 1:12–13) and living for pleasure. In contrast, godly young women were to be known for their concern for their home.

Fourth, young women were to be "kind." This trait is also part of the fruit of the Spirit given by Paul (Galatians 5:22–23), which is relevant for all Christians. Fifth, young women were to be "submissive to their own husbands." In Titus, this is meant to be in contrast to the culture of non-believers in Crete, where wives likely disrespected their husbands. However, Paul also develops the concept of wives submitting to their husband elsewhere (Ephesians 5:22–33), as does Peter (1 Peter 3:5). This submission does not mean living as a servant, or never taking initiative. Rather, it means living with love under a husband's leadership. Paul compares Christian marriage with the relationship between Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:22–33).