All of Us. All the Time.

When they kept on questioning Him, He straightened up and said to them, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” – John 8:7

At this stage of my life, I rarely have a problem considering my own weaknesses! Yet, if I am ever quick to condemn another, then all I need to do is remember these words of Christ before pointing out the failings in others.

Pride definitely precedes destruction (or, at least, humiliation)!

On the other hand, a mark of authenticity in our relationships (in and outside the church) is our ability to confront sin in a way that both honors God's holiness and His mercy. Principles for church discipline are clearly stated in God's Word and I have been a part of a church that handled this properly, but it is never easy to implement. It just has to be exercised in a humble, loving, restorative manner. The congregation that does not embrace this practice will always be less than God intends it to be. Is it messy? Yes. Uncomfortable? Certainly. Revealing? Of course, but if we desire true fellowship with the saints then we must be at the same time both loving and accountable to one another.

All of us. All the time.

Love precedes discipline. – John Owen