Daily EncouragementSample

There is a place for rebuke. Parents who accept the idea that any kind of rebuke smacks of the negative are following the philosophy of men, not the word of God. Rebuke is a vital element in the preaching of the word (2 Tim. 4:2, Titus 2:15). There is place for public rebuke (1 Tim.5:19-20) - certainly if the truth of the gospel itself is at stake, as when Paul opposed Peter (Gal. 2:11ff). The private rebuke - “just between the two of you” (Matt. 18:15) - is often the most needed, but it is frequently avoided.

What gives the rebuke its golden touch? The way in which it is administered. Time, tone and spirit are all involved. It will be positive - “a life-giving rebuke” (Prov. 15:31). It will have the light of divine reality about it; in that light there is cleansing from sin and sweet fellowship (1 John 1:7). It will be said in love, in the spirit of him who says, “those whom I love I rebuke” (Rev. 3:19).

Again, rebuke’s golden quality is evident when it is received graciously. A listening ear is the one essential. “He who listens to a life-giving rebuke will be at home among the wise” (Prov. 15:31).