Yes, we are called to help restore others. Reach out to them.
So, how do we go about that if a brother or sister is caught in a sin?
Before we answer this question let’s consider that we are called to do good to all. It’s what God has called us to, no matter what a person has done or hasn’t done. Here’s the Biblical answer:
“Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” Galatians 6: 1
Doesn’t it make you wonder what their sin was?
We don’t know the specifics of their sin. Paul didn’t say.
For the record, before we get gender specific with the question the term “brothers,” means “fellow Christians.” So, ladies, you are not exempt from this encouragement.
Whatever the sin was it doesn’t matter. Paul tells us HOW to address it.
We are told to restore others gently if they are caught in a sin. A spiritually mature believer is encouraged to be gentle in confronting sin. Not an easy task, but definitely possible if led by the Spirit of God. How do we do that? Speak the truth in love!
After the truth is spoken, remember that we are to “Watch ourselves or we may also be tempted.” Galatians 61b
I love this because Paul reminds the spiritually mature one that no one is above falling or sinning.
No matter how mature spiritually we think we are, we must always remember that we are all sinners saved by His grace.
Folks don’t dismiss humility. It’s a very important Christ-like character.
The next advice Paul gives is to “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” Galatians 6: 2
Paul addressed this very issue to the church in Rome when he said, “We who are strong, ought to bear with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves. Each of us should please his neighbor for his good, to build him up.” Romans 15: 1-2
His point is this: Pray for those who are spiritually weak, encourage and build them up, not tear them down.
There is a way to speak and a way not to speak. Learn to let your vocabulary build up those who are weak. It will exhort them to their higher calling.
Point out their wrongdoing, yes, but don’t beat them over the head with your Bible!
The Bible was given to bring healing not wounding. Let the Word work. It’s alive and active. The Holy Spirit will bring further conviction and He has the power to set people free.
Once again, Paul brings man’s self-righteous attitude into his teaching by saying, “If anyone thinks he is something when he is nothing, he deceives himself. Each one should test his own actions. Then he can take pride in himself, without comparing himself to somebody else, for each one should carry his own load.” Galatians 6: 3-5
Yep, Paul is speaking the Truth in love to the one who may have that self-righteous, holier-than-thou, attitude.
When we “carry our own load,” we are accountable to God and God alone.
Brothers and sisters, we are called to help bring restoration to others. We are called to do good to all.
Paul concludes his instruction saying, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.” Galatians 6: 10
Each and every day we are presented with many opportunities. May we consistently:
Make the most out of opportunities and do good to all people.
KINGDOM ASSURANCE
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