What are the Christian’s responsibilities in bringing correction?
Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation - Lesson 6, Restore with Gentleness, Question 23, p. 90
As human beings, we often find ourselves in situations where we are tempted to force someone else to repent. This temptation can stem from a variety of sources, such as witnessing a loved one engaging in harmful behavior, feeling a strong moral conviction, or experiencing frustration over repeated mistakes. Whatever the reason, it's important to remember that the role of guiding others towards repentance ultimately belongs to God.
When faced with the temptation to compel someone to repent, we might resort to actions such as pleading, arguing, or even exerting pressure in an attempt to change their behavior. These efforts, while well-intentioned, can often lead to feelings of resentment, resistance, and strained relationships. To control our passions and avoid taking on God's responsibilities, we can turn to the wisdom found in scripture.
In 2 Timothy 2:24-26, we are reminded of the qualities that should characterize our approach: "And the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth, and they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will." These verses emphasize the importance of kindness, patience, and gentle correction, rather than forceful or aggressive tactics.
To help control our passions, we can:
Practice empathy by putting ourselves in the other person's shoes and understanding their perspective. See: Viewing a Brother or Sister in Christ Amidst Conflict.
Pray for guidance and wisdom, asking God to grant the other person repentance and clarity. See: Confession Leads to Healing for how prayer leads to healing.
Focus on setting a positive example through our own actions and attitudes, demonstrating the transformative power of God's love.
Always be ready to remind them how forgiven they are! See: Proclaiming God's Forgiveness
Despite our best efforts, there will be times when we fail and succumb to the temptation of forceful intervention. In these moments, we can find comfort in the words of 1 John 1:7b: "the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin." This verse reassures us that, even in our shortcomings, God's grace is sufficient to cleanse us and offer us a fresh start.
Resisting the temptation to force someone else to repent requires a gentle, patient approach grounded in empathy and prayer. By relying on God's wisdom and grace, we can navigate these challenging situations with love and compassion, trusting that He will lead others to repentance in His perfect timing.
This blog series is adapted from Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation. You can experience this teaching in several ways:
Bible study format through Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation OR Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Downloadable and reproducible version of Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
Seminar format for either Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
Webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation or Go and Be Reconciled: What Does This Mean?
FREE Recorded webinar format for Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation
FREE Online course: Conflict Resolution vs Reconciliation Self Study
Comments