Confrontation revisited - CL 8

View from our bedroom window.

Visit with me again that difficult concept of, “Confrontation is necessary for the success of community living.” Instead of our Galatiians 6 gentle and humble approach, confrontation is often a war of words followed by a schism in the relationship. Or, the opposite – no discussion just repression (bottling it up inside). Results? Explosion or implosion. Either leads to an adversarial rupture in harmonioua community living.

We’re operating under the premise that the Bible gives us guidelines, telling us how to live and die succesfully. Does it say more about confrontation? As we would say in North Dakota, “Ya shore, you betcha.” Check these out.

Luke 17:3 So watch yourselves! “If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive.

Eph. 5:11 Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.

! Tim. 5:20 Those (pastors / elders) who sin should be reprimanded in front of the whole church; this will serve as a strong warning to others.

2 Tim.4:2 Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favorable or not. Patiently correct, rebuke, and encourage your people with good teaching.

Tit.1:13, 2:15 So reprimand them sternly to make them strong in the faith. So reprimand them sternly to make them strong in the faith.(Same words from two different chapters.) - You must teach these things and encourage the believers to do them. You have the authority to correct them when necessary, so don’t let anyone disregard what you say – the words of St. Paul

And, in the Old Testament..
Leviticus 19:17 17 “Do not nurse hatred in your heart for any of your relatives. Confront people directly so you will not be held guilty for their sin.
Am I my brother’s keeper? Sure looks that way !
And remember, the best way to confront, especially in community living, is found in Galatians 6.