Titus 2:2 “That the aged men be sober, grave….”
Perhaps the best English equivalent of the underlying Greek word σέμνος (“semnos” translated “grave”) is the word “worshipful,” for the word describes a life that consistently seeks to place itself under the value of God, as aligned with it, subordinate to it, in glad cooperation with it, pleased by it, and counting itself rich by it. “He is worthy of my life,” it says, “and as you watch, you will see a life of real value, for you will see it laying aside all other value for His.”
This word describes a life rich with God. While many have an impoverished view of the word “grave,” the Biblical Word has none of this poverty. The word itself is of the same root (cognate) with the verb σεβομαι, which means “to worship.” Being formed from this root, the word σεμνος (translated “grave”) describes worship and reverence toward God as a continuous, unified habit of life, in which He is valued according to the revelation He gave of Himself. This, in turn, makes the life respectable and noble, worthy of honor from those around it, not by seeking to be honorable, but by seeking to honor God, for it is not characterized by the degrading and selfish mannerisms and habits of a life valuing its own honor and dignity.
Thus, this word describes a life lived in seasoned regard for God and His design for life–the source of its honor–made up of noteworthy choices, because of its characteristic honor of God.
While used in secular Greek in a corrupted manner, in its true meaning (God’s), this Word does not mean “to be reverenced” or “to inspire respect” or “to be august,” as if humans are to seek respect of their fellow humans. Rather, those genuinely characterized by living in worship of God will often become despised, as Daniel was by his fellow princes or as Paul, whose presence was described by his enemies as “weak” (2 Cor. 10:10).
Further, this word does not describe a condition without joy, as “austerity,” but one in which joy is governed by the honor of God and the good of others. It describes a life that does not trivialize God or His design but honors Him even in the trivial.
SOME PASSAGES CONTAINING THIS WORD ROOT
Phil. 4:8
Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.
1Tim. 3:8 “Likewise must the deacons be grave….”
1Tim. 3:11 “Even so must their wives be grave….”
Titus 2:2 “That the aged men be sober, grave….”
1Tim. 3:4 “One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity” [noun form of same root]
Titus 2:7 “In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity,”
Biblical Return 