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Dealing With a Sinning Brother
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughIn addressing the restoration of a brother who has sinned, we must approach with deep love and concern, reflecting the compassion of Christ. In the situation described in Corinth, a severe sin required immediate and decisive action, resulting in the offending member being put out of fellowship to protect the congregation and to prompt repentance. However, the goal was not permanent exclusion but restoration. When the man showed genuine sorrow for his actions, the instruction was clear: forgive and comfort him, lest he be overwhelmed by excessive grief. The call was to reaffirm love for him, ensuring that lingering distrust or unforgiveness did not provide an opportunity for satan to exploit the situation. This approach was marked by thoughtfulness and emotion, aiming to repair relationships within the church. The guiding principle in dealing with a sinning brother is to treat them as a brother, not merely as a sinner. Our foundation must be love, as Christ commanded, loving one another as He has loved us. This is paired with humility, esteeming others better than ourselves, and looking out for their interests above our own. We are cautioned against rash judgment, understanding that the measure we use will be measured back to us. Instead, we are to focus on our own shortcomings before addressing those of others. Forgiveness is paramount; if we hold anything against anyone, we must forgive, knowing that our own forgiveness from the Father depends on this. When a brother sins against us, the process is delicate and specific. First, go to him privately and inform him of his fault, aiming to restore the relationship without confrontation. If he does not listen, take one or two witnesses who can confirm the sin, still seeking reconciliation. If he remains unrepentant, bring the matter to church authorities, keeping the issue confined to as few as possible to cover the sin. Only as a last resort, if he refuses to acknowledge his wrongdoing, should disassociation occur, treating him as outside fellowship. Yet, even this is done with the hope of eventual restoration, not as punishment but as a means to bring him back. Ultimately, our attitude must be one of saving a soul from death and covering a multitude of sins. We strive to turn a brother back from error, acting in love to ensure that we all reach the Kingdom of God together.
Restoration and Forgiveness
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsIt is impossible to grow spiritually in a climate of animosity and jealousy. If we use the power of God's Holy Spirit, peace will accrue as a fruit.
Judge Not, That You Be Not Judged (Part Two)
Sermonette by Ryan McClureChristians should not serve on juries because God has not equipped us at this time to look into peoples' hearts and motives.
The Prisoner
'Ready Answer' by Austin Del CastilloWe tend to work at cross-purposes to God, imprisoning ourselves and others in our adversarial relationships. The key to our cell is true forgiveness.
Confessions of a Finger-Pointer
'Ready Answer' by StaffDuring times of unrest and confusion, it is easy to blame others for our problems. Yet finger-pointing is contrary to everything God teaches.
Hate the Sin, But Love and Forgive the Sinner
Sermonette by Bill OnisickOne of the deadliest afflictions we can develop is a self-righteous, vindictive 'Phineas' complex, seizing the sword of the Lord to correct a fellow member.
Using Righteous Judgment
Sermon by Kim MyersWhen we minimize sin, we become displeasing to God. God expects His people to confront brothers and sisters in Christ gently, without becoming judgmental.
Discerning of Spirit
Sermonette by Ronny H. GrahamWe need the ability to discriminate in spiritual matters. Grace does not cover unrepented sins nor fellowship with those contemptuous of God's laws.
The Need for Forgiveness
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughBecause it is more blessed to give than to receive, the things we desire for ourselves we should be willing to give to others, including forgiveness.
The Scepter, Duty, and the Days of Unleavened Bread
Sermon by Mark SchindlerGod has honored His promise to David that He would always provide a member of his family to sit on the throne of Judah. The heirs to David's scepter live today.
Delusions of Perfection
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughWe need to exercise humility and forbearance when we deal with the weaknesses of our brethren, restoring them in love as we would expect them to do for us.
Thou Shall Love Thy Neighbor
Sermon by John O. ReidWe are obligated to show compassion and mercy to all, refraining from gossip, exercising righteous judgment, forgiving others and applying the Golden Rule.
John (Part Fourteen)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughThe overriding motivation for the individuals bringing to Jesus the woman caught in adultery was to trap Him, impaling Him on the horns of a dilemma.
Simplifying Life (Part Three)
Sermon by David F. MaasScripture emphasizes the importance of nurturing a deep connection with God as the foundation of all other relationships.
Our Part in the Sanctification Process (Part Six): Cultivating Kindness
Sermon by David F. MaasBecause kindness is love in action, we must galvanize our thoughts into concrete behaviors, including offering encouraging words and performing uplifting deeds.
Each Other (Part Three)
CGG Weekly by David C. GrabbeWe should assemble with the rest of the Body where possible, and the reason the apostle gives is for exhorting others. We cannot exhort if we have withdrawn.
Compassion and Couch Potatoes
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Charles Whitaker (1944-2021)Christians who 'sit out' opportunities to serve, becoming in effect couch potatoes, commit sins of omission which may lead to the Lake of Fire.