Right Practice

Introduction

Coddling of the American Mind

We’ve gone so far as to say words are violent

You will probably struggle to receive tough love

Parents either weren’t tough or they didn’t love

We even describe words as violence these days

Proverbs 27:6

“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”

Being hurt by a Christian can be a good thing

1 Cor. 4:5 v. 5:12

“Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of the heart. At that time each will receive their praise from God.”

• ⁃ “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside?”

Practical Steps

Read Matthew 18:15-17

Questions to ask yourself before addressing someone’s sin

Have I addressed my own sin first, or am I doing this to deflect from my own issues?

Have I prayed my way out of bitterness or pride?

Is it a recurring issue that they’re unaware or unrepentant over?

Am I the best person to address this?

How do I address it?

Live with a willingness to be corrected before you ever do correcting. Even be proactive about it. 

Talk to them first privately

Bring the next best person with you that also knows about the offense or that can help mediate between you two

If still unrepentant then you can ask me for help

• If they continue on with no remorse, they should be viewed as a non-believer 

Exhortation

Two extremes we can go to

Ignoring offense to keep peace above the surface, which is not loving

Trying to catch people in the wrong, which is not loving

I want to live a life trying to catch people doing the right thing and letting them know how they’ve encouraged me. Then when the day comes to address a sin there’s no doubt I love them

Romans 12:9-10, 16, 18

“Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited…If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”..