Forgiving & RebukingSample

Jesus said, “If someone sins against you seven times in a day, and seven times comes back to you and says, ‘I repent,’ forgive him” (Luke 17:4).

Forgiveness is at the very heart of our Christian faith.

However, the uncommon virtue of positively rebuking someone is often little understood in our present day. It is. therefore. often neglected in a church’s ministry. Be thoughtful while reading today’s verses because rebuking and forgiving are both closely associated with repentance!

These spiritual disciplines are only beneficial if they are exercised under the Holy Spirit’s control. Describing the attribute of spiritual maturity needed to correct a brother, the Bible says,“… he who is spiritual judges all things...” (1 Corinthians 2:15). Sincerely and humbly bear in mind that you may be next in line to deserve a redemptive rebuke, or receive someone’s kind forgiveness.

The biblical reason for helping fellow believers squarely face their sin is to humbly assist them in reaching their spiritual potential, as "iron sharpens iron." This is why either receiving or giving spiritual correction, which is guided by the Holy Spirit, will be one of life’s most valuable experiences. The Bible explains, “The Lord disciplines those He loves…” (Hebrews 12:6).