Written by: John Sernaque
Call to Worship
James 5: 19-20
5:19 Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;
5:20 Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.
Do not put him to shame by exposing his fault to others, nor bring dishonor upon Christ by making public the sin or error of one who bears His name. Often the truth must be plainly spoken to the erring; he must be led to see his error, that he may reform. But you are not to judge or to condemn. Make no attempt at self-justification. Let all your effort be for his recovery. In treating the wounds of the soul, there is need of the most delicate touch, the finest sensibility. Only the love that flows from the Suffering One of Calvary can avail here. With pitying tenderness, let brother deal with brother, knowing that if you succeed, you will “save a soul from death,” and “hide a multitude of sins.” {DA 440.3}
It is written “For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.” John 3:17. This is the example that Christ Jesus has left for us. When we evangelize and lead others to Christ, our effort should not be by condemnation, but rather for their recovery. We are to treat these souls in a loving manner and avoid being judgmental and critical. Our mission is to lead others to the Word of God and let them know how much Jesus loves them. Sister White writes “Make no attempt at self-justification.” Follow the example of Christ- you too will save a soul from death and hide a multitude of sins.
Dear God,
We thank You for giving us the truth that saves. We are all sinners and yet You still love us just as we are. We are sorry and repent of our sins and pray for Your forgiveness. You sacrificed all so that we may be saved. We pray that as we are out and about, and when we are dealing with brother, that we may exemplify the love and tenderness You have shown to us. Soften our hearts that we may treat each other with tender love and compassion. Help us to speak the plain truth to the erring so that they may be converted from the error of their way. Help us to save souls and bring honor to Your name. These things we ask and pray, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
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