How does Proverbs 27:5 relate to Matthew 18:15 on addressing sin? Open correction reveals real love “Better an open rebuke than love that is concealed.” – Proverbs 27:5 Private confrontation wins a brother “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother.” – Matthew 18:15 Shared heartbeat of both passages • Love that stays silent when sin is present isn’t love at all • Loving rebuke is to be deliberate, personal, and for the other person’s good • The goal is restoration, not humiliation Complementary roles • Proverbs gives the principle: open, honest correction is better than hidden affection • Jesus supplies the process: initiate a one-on-one conversation, seeking repentance and reconciliation Motives that please God • Desire for the other’s holiness (Galatians 6:1) • Protection of fellowship within the body (1 Corinthians 5:6) • Commitment to truth spoken in love (Ephesians 4:15) Practical steps 1. Examine your own heart first (Matthew 7:3-5) 2. Pray for humility and clarity 3. Approach privately, not publicly, just as Jesus instructs 4. Speak plainly, anchoring the concern in Scripture 5. Offer a path forward and a willingness to walk with the person 6. Leave room for the Spirit to convict and restore Warnings to heed • Avoid gossip—hidden talk about sin violates both passages • Resist harshness—truth must be seasoned with grace (Colossians 4:6) • Don’t delay—prolonged silence can harden hearts (Hebrews 3:13) Expected fruit • A rescued brother or sister (James 5:19-20) • Deeper trust between believers (Proverbs 27:6) • A testimony of authentic love to the watching world (John 13:34-35) |
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