How can we actively "turn a sinner from the error of his way"? Remember the Call James 5:19: “My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth and someone should bring him back…” The Lord makes rescuing wanderers a family responsibility. Scripture is clear, literal, and trustworthy—so we step forward with confidence, not hesitation. Start with a Heart Aligned to God • Personal holiness first: Matthew 7:5—remove your own plank before addressing another’s speck. • Spirit-filled attitude: Galatians 6:1—“restore him gently” by walking in the Spirit. • Genuine love: 1 Peter 4:8—“love covers a multitude of sins,” motivating compassionate action. Speak the Truth in Love • Share God’s Word plainly; it alone convicts and liberates (Hebrews 4:12). • Avoid harshness; Proverbs 15:1—“A gentle answer turns away wrath.” • Use specific Scripture addressing the error, not personal opinion (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Pursue with Patient Persistence • Matthew 18:15‐17 outlines private, then two or three witnesses, then church involvement. • Don’t quit after one attempt; Ezekiel 33:8 warns against silence when a soul is at stake. • Keep doors open for ongoing conversations and questions. Model Repentance and Restoration • Share your own testimonies of God’s forgiveness (1 Timothy 1:15-16). • Demonstrate changed behavior so the wanderer sees the gospel lived out (Philippians 2:15). Engage in Prayerful Warfare • Pray before, during, and after every interaction (1 Samuel 12:23). • Stand against spiritual blindness; 2 Timothy 2:25-26 speaks of God granting repentance and escape from the devil’s snare. Offer Tangible Help • Practical support—meals, transportation, accountability meetings—shows the sincerity of your concern (1 John 3:18). • Pair truth with mercy: Jude 23—“save others, snatching them from the fire; and to others show mercy with fear.” Guard Your Own Soul • Maintain healthy boundaries; 1 Corinthians 10:12 warns, “let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” • Seek wise counsel and prayer support from mature believers. Celebrate Restoration • Luke 15:7—there is joy in heaven over one sinner who repents. • Affirm forgiveness and new beginnings: Psalm 103:12—sins removed “as far as the east is from the west.” By aligning our hearts with God, speaking Scripture lovingly, persisting in prayer, and backing words with action, we actively turn a sinner from the error of his way—fulfilling James 5:19 and multiplying heaven’s joy. |
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