DEVOTION
FOR SATURDAY DECEMBER 24, 2016
Topic:
CORRECTING AN ERRING BROTHER
Text:
Matthew 18:15 – 20
Jesus taught how to correct an
earring brother in our text. He then gave authority to the church, that if the
church suspends anyone, heaven would approve it. Today, we have seen so many
people change places of worship, because they don’t want to submit to the
authority of the church when she tries to discipline them. If you have been
suspended by your church and you leave there to another without the church
lifting the suspension, you are still under a curse. It will be better if you repent
now and go back to your former church for prayers before you going to another
church. What the church has decreed has the backing of God (16:18; 18:18; Jn.
20:23). Do not think that the pronouncement made is not binding on you. It is
still there.
If a professed Christian is wronged
by another, he ought not to complain of it to others, as is often done merely
upon report, but to go to the offender privately, state the matter kindly, and
show him his misconduct. When someone wrongs us, we often do the opposite of
what Jesus recommends. We turn away in hatred or resentment, seek revenge, or
engage in gossip. By contrast, we should go to that person first, as difficult
as that may be. Then we should forgive that person as often as he or she needs
it (18:21-22).
Food
for Thought: Forgiveness creates a much better
chance of restoring relationship and creating peaceful coexistence.
Memory
verse: Matthew 18 verse 15
Prayer:
My Lord and my God, grant me the grace to apply these principles
Jesus taught us when people offend me.
