The Older Men and Older Women, Younger Women and Young Men

The opening verses of chapter two suggest that there is a close connection, in paul's mind between christian doctrine and appropriate ethics. He does not directly address wives and husbands here, but older men and older women, younger women and younger men. The teaching thus organized leads more to the development of individuals into mature exemplars of their sex. They need to be self controlled, prudent, restrained, moderate people who have a rain upon their appetites, their passions and their moods. People whose wills are guided by their reason. Soundness in faith would be belief in the gospel and in god that does not waver under trial. Steadfastness corresponding with hope.