“My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.” (James 5:19-20 ESV)
These two verses make me think of the story of the prodigal son, which is the story our church, Celebration Church, derives its name from. In Luke 15:24 it said that, when the son came home, they “began to celebrate.”
So James gives a practical assignment to all of us as followers of Jesus: when we see people wander away from the truth and stray from their relationship with Jesus, God calls us to help bring them back into God’s family. When that happens, that’s a reason for a celebration!
We all are our brother’s (and sister’s) keeper, even though Cain, after he killed his brother Abel, tried to dodge his responsibility when God asked him where his brother was (Gen.4:9).
When you see that your brother or sister is not as consistent in coming to church or to your small group anymore, reach out to them. Find out what’s going on in their heart. Maybe they are facing attacks that may be drawing them away from the Lord.
When you see that your brother or sister is reading books or sharing teaching that does not line up with scripture and that will lead them – and others – astray, talk to them, preferably with a second person. Point them in the direction to healthy teaching. Follow up with them.
When you see your brother and sister is starting to condone things that the Bible calls sin, or they even start actively engaging in these sins, start a conversation with them about it, and help them get back to the right path.
You and I, we are our bother’s and sister’s keeper. And so are your brothers and sisters to you.
“… whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.” (James 5:20 ESV)
Photo by Mishal Ibrahim on Unsplash
Leave a Reply