Rebuking in Love – Day 2

I have written you in my letter not to associate with sexually immoral people - not at all meaning the people of this world who are immoral, or the greedy and swindlers, or idolaters. In that case you would have to leave this world. But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? - 1 Corinthians 5: 9-12


How many times have we heard the phrase, “But who am I to judge someone else?” While this is great advice for those outside the church, Paul reminds the Corinthians that if someone claims to be a believer and then lives a lifestyle that’s obviously contrary to the Scripture, then we have an obligation to help bring that person back to a right perspective. It’s not an option; it’s a command. It’s obviously difficult to do this and much easier to ignore the situation. But ignoring it only makes things worse and leaves a Christian brother or sister in bondage of sin. If we love one another, then we must learn to help each other remain faithful – even if that means confronting each other in love when necessary.

What are some reasons we don’t confront other believers in love?

Are they valid reasons?

Pray about any situations in which God might have you confront someone in love. And ask for God’s wisdom regarding what to say.