Diverting the Wanderer James 5:19-20

James 5:19-20 (NKJV) 19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.

I. The wanderingone

James 5:19a (NKJV) Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth

Luke 22:31-32 (NKJV) 31 And the Lord said, "Simon, Simon! Indeed, Satan has asked for you, that he may sift you as wheat. 32 But I have prayed for you, that your faith should not fail; and when you have returned to Me, strengthen your brethren."

    He strays from the truth both…

    A. Doctrinally

    B. Practically

Galatians 6:7-8 (NKJV) 7 Do not be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, that he will also reap. 8 For he who sows to his flesh will of the flesh reap corruption, but he who sows to the Spirit will of the Spirit reap everlasting life.

II. The divertingone

James 5:19 (NKJV) 19 Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back,

     He turns the sinner from his wandering

Galatians 6:1 (NKJV) Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who arespiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.

III. The divertedone

James 5:20 (NKJV) 20 let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.

      A. He is saved from death

1 John 5:16 (NKJV) 16 If anyone sees his brother sinning a sin which doesnot lead to death, he will ask, and He will give him life for those who commit sin not leading to death. There is sin leading to death. I do not say that he should pray about that.

      B. His many sins are covered

1 John 1:9 (NKJV) 9 If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

What is the primary message of James 5:19-20?

How does this passage define the concept of wandering from the truth?

In what ways can we identify someone who is wandering doctrinally or practically among us?

What are some practical steps we can take to help someone who is straying from their faith?

What does it mean to cover a multitude of sins according to this scripture?

Can you think of a time when someone helped you return to the truth? How did it impact you?

Think of a GPS system that reroutes you when you take a wrong turn. It doesn't scold you; instead, it cheerfully says, 'Recalculating!' In our spiritual journeys, we can stray off course, much like taking a wrong turn on the road. God's guidance is like that friendly GPS, continuously redirecting us back home with grace and humor, reminding us that it’s never too late to get back on track.