are to be
This phrase indicates a present and ongoing expectation. The Greek verb "εἶναι" (einai) suggests a state of being that is continuous. It is not merely a suggestion but a directive for how older men should conduct themselves consistently. This ongoing state of being reflects the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in a believer's life, emphasizing that these qualities are not just aspirational but attainable through divine grace.

temperate
The Greek word "νηφάλιος" (nēphalios) means sober-minded or clear-headed. It implies a life free from excess, particularly in relation to alcohol, but also in broader terms of moderation in all things. This quality is crucial for maintaining a balanced and rational approach to life, allowing older men to make wise decisions and offer sound counsel.

dignified
The term "σεμνός" (semnos) conveys a sense of respectability and honor. It suggests a demeanor that commands respect, not through authoritarianism, but through integrity and moral uprightness. In the historical context, dignity was a highly valued trait, reflecting a person's character and standing within the community.

self-controlled
The Greek "σώφρων" (sōphrōn) refers to a disciplined and prudent lifestyle. Self-control is a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:23) and is essential for living a life that is pleasing to God. It involves mastery over one's desires and impulses, ensuring that actions are aligned with godly principles.

sound in faith
The word "ὑγιαίνω" (hygiainō) means healthy or whole. In this context, it refers to a robust and unwavering faith. Older men are called to have a faith that is not only intellectually sound but also deeply rooted in their relationship with God. This soundness in faith provides a foundation for the other virtues and is a source of strength in times of trial.

love
The Greek "ἀγάπη" (agapē) is the highest form of love, characterized by selflessness and sacrifice. It is the love that God shows to humanity and that believers are called to emulate. For older men, being sound in love means demonstrating this unconditional love in their interactions with others, serving as a reflection of Christ's love.

and perseverance
The term "ὑπομονή" (hypomonē) signifies endurance and steadfastness. It is the ability to remain faithful and committed despite challenges and hardships. Perseverance is a testament to a mature faith that has been tested and refined over time. Older men, through their life experiences, are to model this perseverance, encouraging others to remain steadfast in their walk with Christ.

Be sober.--In a more extended sense than the bare literal meaning of the word would give. Let the elder men be "thoughtful," in contrast with the thoughtlessness of careless youth.

Grave.--And quietly earnest, in contrast with all passion and undue excitability.

Temperate.--Discreet, or self-restrained, would be a better rendering for the Greek word.

Sound in faith, in charity, in patience.--Here Paul the aged sums up for the aged men of Crete in these three words, so well known by all his devoted hearers then, by all the devout students of his theology in subsequent ages, the great principles out of which the true saint life springs--faith, love, patience. In the famous Pauline trilogy of virtues, in this place, "patience" takes the place of hope, because this brave patience, this enduring fortitude, especially becomes the old man waiting for death. In respect to these "three" they must be healthy, sound. The faith must not be adulterated with superstitions--the love must be chivalrous, not sentimental. It must be no partisan feeling, but a tender affection, broad and inclusive, as was St. Paul's and his Master Christ's. The patience must be no mere tame acquiescence in what seems to be the inevitable, but must be brave, enduring, suffering--if suffering comes--for the Lord's sake with a smile on the lips. "Not without reason," writes Calvin, "does St. Paul include in these three the sum of Christian perfections." It is with "faith" that we worship God--no prayer, no work of piety, can be severed from "faith." "Love" spreads its wings over all our duties to our neighbour; and "patience" must ever go hand in hand with both "faith" and "love." Without "patience" could "faith" hardly endure; and the affronts and unkindnesses of the world would, without this high virtue of patience, soon deaden and even destroy "love."