Titus 2:4

σωφρονίζουσιν. This is the reading adopted by Tischendorf and Tregelles, and it is supported by the strong combination א*AGHP. We have printed it in the text, in accordance with the rules laid down for the direction of editors of the Cambridge Greek Testament (p. v.). But that ἵνα should be followed by the present indicative (see, however, 1 Corinthians 4:6; Galatians 4:17) seems improbable, and we concur with WH and the rec. text in preferring σωφρονίζωσιν, which is read by אcCD2EKL, the cursives, and the Greek Fathers generally.

4. ἴνα σωφρονίζωσιν τὰς νέας, that (this is the reason why they should be καλοδιδάσκαλοι) they may train the young women, sc. primarily the young married women, as the context shews. The demeanour of Titus himself to these members of his flock would, no doubt, be the same as that recommended to Timothy (1 Timothy 5:2; see note thereon). See critical note.

The verb σωφρονίζειν is ἄπ. λεγ. in the Greek Bible; see on 2 Timothy 1:9 and on 1 Timothy 2:9.

iii. Young wives

φιλάνδρους εἶναι, to be lovers of their husbands. The word does not occur again in LXX. or N.T.; we have in Plutarch (Praec. conj. 38) φίλανδροι καὶ σώφρονες γυναῖκες.

φιλοτέκνους, lovers of their children. The word is not found again in N.T.; we have it in 4Ma 15:4-5 and (coupled with φίλανδροι) in Plutarch (Mor. p. 769).