How To Triumph Over Offences
ICS Daily Devotions
Matthew 18:15-17 (NKJV) “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.
Many of Jesus’ sayings might not be very palatable to Christians in developed nations today. Along with material wealth and education comes pride. Not only do they feel entitled to say what they want and do what they like, but they think they are free from accountability for their words and actions. They are easily offended by service standards, intolerant of mistakes, impatient with people, and feel they can choose when to submit to authorities. This has resulted in many strained relationships.
So, what is the biblical way of dealing with offences?
In the opening passage, Jesus has taught us a three-step approach to confronting someone who has wronged or sinned against us.
We should talk to the person personally. It would be wise to avoid indirect forms of communication such as letters, emails, text messages, or phone calls. Instead, we should meet the person face to face so that we can witness, feel, and sense their sincerity.
If the talks fail after this first attempt, we should bring one or two persons to reiterate what we have communicated to the person during the first step. These witnesses will establish what was spoken and the other party’s response.
The last resort is to inform the church of the wrongdoing so that the church can intervene. If that person refuses to listen to the pastor, we have to treat them as a heathen. We should not bring the person to court unless we have taken these steps to restore the relationship and grant them a chance to repent and correct the wrong.
This biblical process is established on grace, peacemaking, and sincerity of heart. Through the story of redemption, God has set a perfect example for us regarding how to regain friendship with those who have sinned against us. Therefore, we should follow this biblical practice whenever someone has sinned against us. Any other means of dealing with each other in the family of God are carnal, which will allow the devil to steal, kill and destroy while giving a flawed testimony to the world. Following Jesus’ way is the best way to deal with and triumph over offences.
Sermon Series：What Is Seventy Times Seven Times?
