Restoring The Brother

One of the goals in dealing with those we conclude we must confront due to sinful behavior is restoration (Galatians 6:1; Hebrews 12:12,13; 2 Corinthians 2:5-11). But often this is not seen as the goal. The goal may be simply to condemn them and drive them away. Now we need to realize that not not everyone will be willing to be restored. But we need to instruct and correct them with that in mind. The issue involved is a genuine love and concern for the person involved (John 13:34;35; 1 John 3:14-16; 2 Timothy 2:24-26). And we need to be willing to forgive (Ephesians 4:31,32; Colossians 3:12-14; Matthew 18:21-35). Now there is a danger of a glib false repentance. But while I believe we do need to take this into consideration, we must beware of putting self-protection over love of the brethren. And God demands we make every effort to restore the erring brother. To do so we need to remember that we are ourselves sinners (Romans 3:23; Jeremiah 17:9; Isaiah 64:6) and should not be sitting in judgment on others (Romans 2:1; 14:4; James 4:11,12). Our goal needs to be to help put that person back on the right path, not kick them to the curb.