Minute in the Word
“God Has Called You to Help. Not Hurt.”
But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.
Now to him who is able to keep you from stumbling and to present you blameless before the presence of his glory with great joy, to the only God, our Savior, through Jesus Christ our Lord, be glory, majesty, dominion, and authority, before all time and now and forever.
(Jude 1.20–25 ESV)
As we work with one another inside our congregational family, some will be confronted with personal sin and doctrinal error. When we try to help, we need to use different approaches with different people. Some personalities are more influenced by kind words and gentle manners - rather than denunciation. We need to wisely adapt ourselves to the character and circumstances of those we seek to save. Other situations call for decisive and swift action. Sin and rebelliousness must be regarded for what it is and handled accordingly. A key to putting these verses into practice is the development of strong relationships with one another. We need to make an emotional investment in each other. Spend time with your spiritual family and get to know each one better. Remember God has called you to help your brethren - not beat them up. Look for ways to help. Look for ways to listen. Look for ways to encourage - before the situation reaches a crisis point.
