The Greek term (nephaleos, 1 Tim. 3:2, 11; Tit. 2:2), or its root (nephos, 1 Thess. 5:6, 5:8; 2 Tim. 4:5; 1 Pet. 1:13; 4:7; 5:8) are found nine times in the Bible, (references above).
Nephaleos is translated in the NKJV (as a qualification for an elder, or an elder’s wife) as “temperate.” The root term nephos is typically rendered “sober”, but is translated as “watchful” in 2 Timothy 4:5 and 1 Peter 4:7.
Thayer defines nephaleos — 1) sober, temperate; 1a) abstaining from wine, either entirely or at least from its immoderate use.
The typical use of the English term temperance is to abstain from wine, i.e. — the 19th century “Temperance Movement” in America. However, the overarching idea found in scripture is for a person to be watchful of any danger (temptation), and to restrict involvement to avoid it.
Examples of a sober individual. He does not drink, do drugs, gamble or party. He is not a frivolous person, and does not need to “settle down” or “grow up.” Because of his demeanor, he can be counted on, as temperance brings dependability. He is serious minded, so he is rarely caught unawares. He thinks about what is needed, and spends his time preparing to supply what he can. Consider that a godly person is not only characterized by his action (the positive things he does), but also by his restraint (the negative things he avoids). The temperate man is equipped to avoid the negative, pleasing God.
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