Faith & Love: A One Year Bible Reading Plan - Part 10Sample

One of the most common opinions towards fellow believers in modern times is probably not to judge or voice an opinion regarding misconduct or questionable actions. In chapter 7 of Paul’s second letter to the church in Corinth, Paul refers to his harsh rebuke toward them in his first letter. In his first letter, he rebuked them for a number of activities they participated in, activities that might have been part of the culture around them but were contradictory to the new values of Christ's kingdom. He truly loved this group of fellow believers and felt great responsibility toward their spiritual growth. In chapter 7, he explains how hard it was for him to see the anguish his first letter brought them, but explains in verse 9 that although it made them sad for a moment, it led them into deep repentance.

Our love for God and our yearning for His truth to be evident in the lives of the ones whose paths cross with ours should be greater than the sorrow we feel for correcting a fellow believer. We ourselves are dependent on other believers to guide us and shape us.

Deep repentance leads to victory, and seeing the church of Corinth repent and bear fruit of glorious victory brought Paul great joy! When fellow brothers and sisters stray from the path Christ prepared for them, it should bring us great sorrow, urging us to be the voice of reason and providing them with an anchor of truth. Seeing them live in Christ's victory is the ultimate goal!

Are we willing and able to help others in love toward the truth? More importantly, are we willing to be corrected by fellow believers when we go astray in certain parts of our lives?