If a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. —Galatians 6:1
We hear a lot of talk these days about following the example of Jesus by “accepting” and “affirming” people just as they are. The implication is that we must never confront them when they do something wrong.
Yes, Jesus loved and accepted people, but He did not shrink from confronting them. We see this in Luke 7.
Jesus had accepted a dinner invitation from Simon, a self-righteous Pharisee. While at his house, the Lord permitted a woman with a bad reputation to wash His feet with expensive perfumed oil. Jesus knew Simon’s judgmental thoughts as the weeping woman lavished Him with love (vv.36-39). So He confronted the Pharisee about his hypocrisy.
It’s likely that Simon had invited Jesus to his home to try to trap Him. Jesus reminded him of his failure to extend the courtesies normally bestowed on a guest (vv.44-46). Then He acknowledged the evil of the woman’s past and the genuineness of her repentance. The Lord said, “Her sins, which are many, are forgiven, for she loved much” (v.47).
Jesus was respectful to self-righteous religionists, dishonest tax collectors, and prostitutes alike. Yet He never glossed over their sins. He loved people enough to confront them. And so should we. — Herbert Vander Lugt
I know that I am far from perfect, Lord,
But if you tell me I should recognize
And tactfully address some wrong in others,
I will, with all the love that in me lies. —Hess
True love dares to confront and correct.
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