Galatians 2:11

Now when Peter had come to Antioch, I withstood him to his face, because he was to be blamed.

Galatians 2:11

One of the most difficult things for Christians to do is lovingly confront their brothers and sisters in Christ. While Matthew 18 clearly says to speak to those who sin against you face to face, people would rather let it go or talk about the person behind their back.

That’s why Paul is such a good example to us in Galatians 2. Peter was eating with the Gentiles until some Jews showed up and the apostle separated from the Gentiles out of fear. Paul told him it was wrong to be a hypocrite, saying one thing and doing another. This couldn’t have been easy for him because Peter was one of the original 12 disciples while Paul was added to the team later.

There are going to be times in our life we have to confront other Christians. When you have to do it, here are some words of advice. Make sure you do it with humility, realizing you’re a sinner also. Make sure and speak with love, because the purpose should be to restore their relationship with the Lord. Galatians 6:1 says, Brothers, if someone is caught in any wrongdoing, you who are spiritual should restore such a person with a gentle spirit, watching out for yourselves so you also won’t be tempted.

Speaking the truth in love,

Pastor Ron Kitchell