This testimony is true. Therefore rebuke them sharply, that they may be sound in the faith — Paul affirms the Epimenides quotation as true (alēthēs), applying it to the false teachers; the Cretans' reputation for mendacity characterizes those spreading false doctrine. Sharp rebuke (elegche apostomōs) employs the toughest corrective available; the goal remains soteriological — restored soundness (hygiainein) in faith. Discipline serves redemption, not punishment.

COMMUNITY REFLECTIONS

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