28/02/2013 - WHEN SOMEONE FALLS INTO SIN

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Those who are sinning rebuke in the presence of all, that the rest also may fear.

I Timothy 5:20

God’s children are people who have been created anew in Christ Jesus; they have no addictions and, therefore, they were made to lead a sinless life, far from Satan’s bondage and to be the light of the world (Matthew 5:14). However, some get carried away by the enemy and thereby put to shame the good Name that is invoked upon them, besides bringing dishonor and judgment on themselves.

There is nothing sadder than seeing a brother or sister fall into transgression because going back to sin is always traumatic. However, one thing is for sure: God forgives someone who has strayed from His fold, but this person’s return is different from the entrance of a sinner into the Kingdom of Heaven, because those who strayed had already been washed and regenerated but fell into sin again. The passion that caused that individual to leave the Kingdom of God will undoubtedly keep him or her from going back to holiness and from getting rid of the enemy’s actions.

According to the guidance of the Word of God whenever we see a brother or sister in sin we should rebuke them. However, if he or she does not hear us, we have to call two witnesses and, once again, give him/her the necessary reprimand. If they insist on not paying us any heed, we need to take them to church and yet if it is of no avail, then they should be considered publicans and sinners. However, we have not always followed these criteria, which, undoubtedly, are very important.

When some people sin and, upon being rebuked or realizing the mistake they have made, they confess their wrongdoings then they ask for forgiveness and reestablish their communion with the Father. However, there are some who strayed away from the Path, relished this situation and now live openly in unrighteousness. Because of this, they become separated from the Lord’s presence and get carried away by the evil one. Obviously God can restore them if they truly repent.

Unlike those who succumbed – who must be rebuked by those who noticed their error – the ones who already live in sin must be rebuked in the presence of all once they no longer heed what the Spirit of God speaks to them. The public rebuke may open their eyes so that they repent and regain their fellowship with the Father

On the other hand, people who are under temptation may wake up to the risk they’re running and make the wise decision to rebuke the enemy that tempts them. If they fall, much to their shame, they will also be admonished publicly. Those who live in sin will inevitably head towards eternal perdition if they do not repent.

In Christ with love,

R. R. Soares