Restoring Erring Brethren

by Bryan Gibson

“Brethren, if anyone among you wanders from the truth, and someone turns him back, 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” (James 5:19-20).

“Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted. Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:1-2).

The above two passages speak of restoring erring brethren. Obviously, this is a very important work, a work that requires special attributes. Consider the following:

1.         It requires people who are spiritual (Galatians 6:1), people who are producing the fruit of the Spirit in their own lives (Galatians 5:22-23).

2.         It requires a spirit of gentleness (Galatians 6:1). Restoring erring brethren is delicate “soul surgery,” so this is no time to misuse the “sword of the Spirit”!

3.         It requires a constant sense of self-examination (Galatians 6:1). If we are not careful, we can easily fall into the same fault!

4.         It requires a willingness to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2). Our responsibility is not fulfilled by simply pointing out our brother’s faults! It will take some time and energy to help them overcome them.

5.         It requires humility. This is implied in Galatians 6:3, and stated outright in 2 Timothy 2:24-26. People are not prone to accept correction when it comes from an arrogant person.

6.         It requires an ample knowledge of God’s word (2 Timothy 2:24). We must be able to teach and apply God’s word to the situation. We want them to respond to God’s word, and not just to OUR views or opinions!

7.         It requires patience, or longsuffering (2 Timothy 2:24), the same kind that God shows toward our own faults. If repentance is not forthcoming, we can wait for only so long (2 Corinthians 13:1-2; Revelation 2:21), before further action is required (Matthew 18:15-17).

8.         It requires a sincere demonstration of love, both at the time of rebuke (2 Corinthians 2:4; Revelation 3:19), and at the time of repentance (2 Corinthians 2:6-8).