Titus, Part TwoSýnishorn

The position of women

“… Older women ... are to teach what is good, and so train the young women to love their husbands and children, to be self-controlled, pure, working at home, kind, and submissive to their own husbands, that the word of God may not be reviled.” (Titus 2:3-5)

Young women are called to be self-controlled and kind — just like the men in the congregation. But they clearly have a unique position in their families and society. They must abide by the order God has set, in which husband and wife each have their own position. This does not mean, as is sometimes claimed, that women are inferior or that they can only cook and clean. On the contrary, they have an important task in society! This lies first of all in their marriage (if they are married) and with their children (if they have any). If this order is maintained, it is a great blessing for their family and society as a whole.

The ‘ideal wife’ in the Bible does not exactly sit still (see Proverbs 31:10-31). In addition to caring for her family, she has a thriving business, cares for the poor, and is known for her kindness and wisdom. She has an active and multifaceted life and is highly esteemed by her husband and children.

Today, God's order is often referred to as old-fashioned and oppressive. According to many, men and women should be equal in everything. How do you respond to what the Bible says?