In the last public teaching that Jesus did before he was crucified, much of his teaching was denouncing the teaching of the scribes and Pharisees.
In Matthew chapter 23, the bulk of the chapter is Jesus’ warning about the scribes and Pharisees and then a direct confrontation of them regarding the many ways in which they were leading others astray.
Today, if someone criticizes someone who is religious and sincere, the one criticizing is met with the harshest condemnation. They are called unkind, judgmental and it’s often said they practice hate speech.
There is a fine line to walk. We must not be overly critical of a person, but of sin. But loving the sinner and hating the sin is an artform – one that takes practice.
I would encourage you to read specific Biblical instances where confrontations are taking place between righteous and unrighteous people. Observe how Jesus confronted sin while calling sinners to himself, offering grace and hope while at the same time not accepting sin.
To truly love someone is not to keep silent regarding their sin, but to lovingly seek a way to teach that their sin is unacceptable to God and then give the good news that God is ready and willing to forgive their sin if they’ll but turn away from it and unto God.
In other words, it’s a necessary teaching to first teach the bad news before we can teach the good news. Before I knew I was a sinner, I didn’t know that I needed to be saved from anything.
I remember my own experience well. It must have been very difficult for those who taught me to teach me that I was a sinner who needed a savior, but if they wouldn’t have, I wouldn’t be here today.
And neither would you. God bless those who teach what is necessary, who don’t shrink from the truth, but teach and preach the whole gospel, which is really the only true gospel there is.
Much love!
Wes LeFlore (918) 607-8489 or huskerwes1@gmail.com
