E. Don’t be guilty of Self-Righteousness
The last part of verse 1 is a rebuke to our self-righteousness: “But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.” If another can be caught in a sin so can we.
James 3:2 We all stumble in many ways.
1 John 1:8 If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.
1 Corinthians 10:12 So, if you think you are standing firm, be careful that you don’t fall!
It’s difficult to know how to respond when a brother or sister falls. Restoration is delicate work and is not for those who feel spiritually superior. It’s a daunting responsibility and it’s often very messy. Because of that, we must keep three things in mind:
· Don’t diminish the seriousness of sin. We shouldn’t excuse or ignore iniquity. Remember, while Jesus comforted the woman caught in adultery by saying, “Neither do I condemn you,” He also said, “Go and sin no more” (John 8:11).
· Avoid the temptation to witch-hunt. No one is asking you to go on a “search and destroy” mission to uncover and correct the sins of others.
The goal is recovery. Punishment looks backward to the offense while restoration puts the person back on the path that leads forward. When we care for someone, our aim should always be to bring them back to God.
Several years ago, an angry man rushed through a museum in Amsterdam and repeatedly slashed one of Rembrandt’s most famous paintings. A short time later, another man slipped into St. Peter’s Cathedral in Rome with a hammer and began to smash a Michelangelo masterpiece. These two cherished works of art were badly damaged. What do you think the officials did? Did they throw them away? No way. Using the most qualified people they could find, working with care and precision, they made every effort to repair the treasures.
Are you ready to restore God’s masterpieces? Is there anyone you know who has slipped up and needs a helping hand?
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