In what ways can restitution strengthen our witness as followers of Christ? The Scriptural Call to Restitution “then if he who has sinned becomes guilty, he must return what he took by robbery or what he obtained by extortion, or the deposit entrusted to him, or the lost property he found” (Leviticus 6:4). Restitution Demonstrates Genuine Repentance • Leviticus 6 ties confession to concrete action. • Zacchaeus models this: “Look, Lord, half of my possessions I give to the poor, and if I have cheated anyone, I will repay four times the amount” (Luke 19:8). • True change of heart produces visible change of behavior. Restitution Upholds Justice and Truth • Returning what was taken restores equity; it refuses to leave wrongs hanging. • “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to his neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). • Practical justice lived out lends credibility to every word we speak about the gospel. Restitution Reflects God’s Character • The Lord Himself repairs what sin breaks—ultimately through the cross. • When believers restore what they damaged, they mirror His faithfulness. • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness” (1 John 1:9). Restitution Repairs Relationships • Broken trust blocks fellowship; restitution removes the obstacle. • Jesus instructs, “First go and be reconciled to your brother” (Matthew 5:23-24). • A restored relationship often opens doors for witness that mere words cannot. Restitution Validates Our Gospel Message • “Conduct yourselves with such honor among the Gentiles that…they may see your good deeds and glorify God” (1 Peter 2:12). • The world watches how believers handle failure. Owning wrongs and making them right shouts integrity. • “We are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men” (2 Corinthians 8:21). Practical Steps for Restitution Today 1. Ask the Spirit to reveal any outstanding wrongs—financial, relational, or verbal. 2. Calculate the loss honestly; add a generous margin when possible (cf. Numbers 5:7). 3. Approach the offended party humbly, stating the wrong and the planned repayment. 4. Follow through promptly; delayed obedience undercuts testimony. 5. Keep records clear; transparency prevents future doubts. 6. Share the reason: Christ has forgiven you, so you seek to live consistently with His grace. Assurance in Christ While Making Restitution • Restitution does not purchase forgiveness; Christ already paid in full (Colossians 2:13-14). • It flows from forgiven hearts eager to honor Him. • “There is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus” (Romans 8:1). • Secure in that truth, believers can courageously set wrongs right, and in doing so, strengthen their witness before a watching world. |
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