Gospel Community: part 2

Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.- Galatians 6:1‭-‬2 ESV

My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.- James 5:19‭-‬20 ESV

Rev. Dan Whang

Truth telling

Pursuing Holiness through Accountability

Why is gospel community important?

We need to hear the truth. We need accountability. This reminds us of what sin is doing in our lives. It keeps us from drifting away. We do need a personal spiritual life, but that is not enough. We need a community that challenges and confronts sin in our lives.

Gospel community is hard

Speaking the truth in love requires love. We are selfish and harsh. We either don't confront because we don't care what that sin will do. Or we confront them in a harsh manner in order to belittle.

For those being confronted, there can be this fear of judgement. Or this need to defend ourselves. Finally, pride. We don't want to hear other people's feedback on our spiritual lives. Or maybe it's simpler than that, maybe we don't want to grow. Maybe we don't want to change, we're comfortable. Are you okay with your current state of spiritual stagnation?

How do we practically build each other up?

First, we need to realize that this is not a casual activity. We need to pray for God to empower us. For humility; for a selfless love. We must be in his word, so we can recognize sin.

Pray for your heart. If this bothers just you, perhaps you should bear with them. If it affects the community, then ask for another point of view. Not gossip, but rather if whether you discern rightly. Then confront them lovingly.

For those who are confronted, stop and consider the words of rebuke or admonishment. Put aside your pride and consult the word. See if there is truth in what was said.