Let’s focus our hearts and minds on a critical aspect of our Christian walk: restoring straying members of the Lord’s Church.
In Galatians 6:1-2, Paul emphasizes the responsibility we all share in this task. It’s not solely the duty of ministers, elders, or select individuals, but a collective responsibility of every Christian. Additionally, 1 Thessalonians 5:14 reiterates our role in supporting those in need.
The focus of today’s lesson is twofold: to understand the importance of restoring those who have strayed from the church and to explore how we can effectively undertake this crucial work.
First, let’s consider the spiritual condition of those who have wandered from the truth. James points out in his epistle that such individuals are in danger of spiritual death, being separated from the source of forgiveness and the blood of Christ that cleanses sins (1 John 1:6-7). The consequences of sin, as stated in Romans 6:23, is eternal separation from God, depicted through imagery of outer darkness, torment, and gnashing of teeth.
The New Testament provides further insights into the plight of those who have strayed. Peter, in 2 Peter 2:20-22, speaks of the worsened state of those who have known the way of righteousness and then turned away. The book of Hebrews (10:26-31) warns of the severe consequences for those who willfully continue in sin after receiving the knowledge of the truth. Similarly, Jesus’ messages to the churches in Revelation (Revelation 2:4-5; 3:15-16) indicate His displeasure and the impending judgment for those who abandon their first love or become lukewarm in their faith.
Understanding the dire state of those who have strayed should motivate us to act. But how do we go about this task of restoration?
- Develop the Necessary Qualities: Galatians 6:1 calls for those who are spiritual, exhibiting the fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), to gently and humbly help restore the straying member. We need to possess humility, patience, and knowledge of God’s Word, and approach the task with a genuine concern for the individual’s spiritual well-being.
- Follow the Proper Procedure: As outlined by Jesus in Matthew 18:15-17, the process of restoration should begin privately, escalating only if necessary. This approach aims to avoid unnecessary embarrassment and promotes a better chance of successful reconciliation.
- Recognize the Potential for Great Joy: Restoring a straying member not only prevents their spiritual demise but also brings great joy in heaven and within the church (Luke 15:7, 3 John 1:4).
Each of us must examine our attitudes towards our brethren who have strayed. Do we genuinely care for their spiritual well-being? Are we willing to invest the time and effort required to help them return to the fold?
For those among us who may not yet be members of the Lord’s Church, the steps to salvation are clear: hear the gospel, believe, repent of your sins, confess Jesus Christ as the Son of God, and be baptized for the remission of your sins. After baptism, we are called to live faithfully, continually seeking God’s grace and forgiveness as we navigate our Christian journey.
Let’s embrace the love and truth of Christ, and work together to bring back those who have strayed.
