The Bible teaches that rebuking other believers in love and with the goal of restoration is not only acceptable but necessary. Proverbs highlights the wisdom of both giving and receiving correction (Proverbs 9:8; 12:1; 15:31–32; 27:5–6), and David’s confrontation by Nathan demonstrates God’s commitment to correction (2 Samuel 12:7–13). The New Testament emphasizes that correction is necessary because all have sinned (Romans 3:23; 1 John 1:8; James 3:2), and Jesus outlined steps for addressing sin among believers (Matthew 18:15–17). Rebuke must be done with love (1 Corinthians 16:14), after self-examination (Matthew 7:2–5), and in alignment with Scripture (2 Timothy 2:15). Though uncomfortable, biblical correction is essential for restoring fellow believers and strengthening the body of Christ.
Have you ever walked around with toilet paper on your shoe or spinach between your teeth? The embarrassment sets in when you finally realize it. You may think, “Why didn’t someone tell me?” We don’t like pointing out flaws nor having ours noticed. With superficial instances like the toilet paper or the spinach, just our ego is bruised. But with weightier matters, like persistent sin, our relationship with the Lord is at stake if no one helps us get back on course.
The Bible requires Christians to conquer the discomfort of rebuking a fellow believer so that he or she will be restored. Looking the other way at sin is not Christ-like. It’s also a poor witness. Why would someone want to join a church that shrugs at sin—just as the world does? How can we rest in our own relationship with the Lord when our brother’s relationship with Him is in peril? We’re to love our brothers and sisters enough to want to restore them, no matter how uncomfortable the conversation may be.
Before we rebuke, though, we should ask some self-reflective questions: Am I motivated by love and seeking to restore, rather than condemn (Galatians 6:1)? Am I prepared to explain the scriptural basis for the sin in question (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:10)? If my friend doesn't receive my rebuke, am I ready to take this issue to my spiritual leaders (Matthew 18:17)? Am I committed and prepared to walk with my friend during the restoration process (Matthew 26:41; James 5:19–20)? If you’re on solid ground in your answers to these questions, then you must put discomfort aside and attempt to restore a brother or sister.