Win people back

Confrontation. It's usually not easy. But there are times when it's necessary, especially when it comes to squabbles with church friends.

Matthew 18:15 (GWT) says, 'If a believer does something wrong, go, confront him when the two of you are alone. If he listens to you, you have won back that believer.' Yay, friends again! Let's all move on. Oh... hang on. Jesus goes on a bit more: 'But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses' (Matthew 18:16 NLT). Let's be clear though, this isn't a chance to point the finger. This is about accountability. In fact, the passage goes on to say, 'If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector' (Matthew 18:17 NIV). But... bear in mind that Jesus had a lot of time for pagans and tax collectors (Matthew 9:9-12).

The Bible isn't telling us to let go of those who don't listen to us. We're encouraged to do our best to win people back to God's family... even if they've hurt us.



So what now? Is there a person you need to confront about something (even if it seems trivial)? Have a pray about the situation, and seek support of someone wise first if necessary, then take the plunge and win that person back. Go on, you can do it!





— SCRIPTURE —

'If they listen to you, you have won them over.' Matthew 18:15 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

1 Chr 10:1-12:22, John 8:42-59, Ps 49, Pro 25:18-20