Having stated the goals of gospel ministry and the qualifications of elders, Paul explains how the goals of faith and godliness are achieved in the local church: “He [an elder] must hold firm to the trustworthy word as taught, so that he may be able to give instruction in sound doctrine and also to rebuke those who contradict it” (Titus 1:9). This was (and is still today!) the biblical remedy for false teaching. Legalistic doctrine had begun to infiltrate the church in Crete, and the result was not godliness but God-denying deeds. In this sermon, Pastor Matt reveals the surprising dangers and futility of legalism, pointing us to our need for a gracious God who will give us a new heart, a new Spirit, and make us new creations.