Helping Each Other Along

For Tuesday, August 9

Helping Each Other Along

Ezra 8:21-9:15; 1 Corinthians 5:1-13; Psalm 31:1-8; Proverbs 21:1-2 (click to read)

1 Corinthians 5) 9 In my other letter I told you not to have anything to do with immoral people. 10 But I wasn't talking about the people of this world. You would have to leave this world to get away from everyone who is immoral or greedy or who cheats or worships idols. 11 I was talking about your own people who are immoral or greedy or worship idols or curse others or get drunk or cheat. Don't even eat with them! 12 Why should I judge outsiders? Aren't we supposed to judge only church members?

Again, a very interesting parallel between the Ezra passage and the Corinthians verses. I think any group of believers would benefit from talking about the implications of these verses, and seeking what the Holy Spirit is saying to them. Vitally important to me is Paul's statement to NOT avoid or ignore the "immoral" people who are not believers. He basically says "I expect them to live that way and so should you - that does not mean Jesus loves them any less or takes back His invitation to them." But our relationship with fellow believers is more accountability oriented. I feel it is a fine line to walk when I am to "judge" (I read that as evaluate what's going on) a fellow believer regarding how they are following Christ. And I am to expect the some from my fellow believers. This does not diminish grace - indeed, Paul is referring to a person who calls himself a believer, but openly acts in non-Christ-following ways. This person says she is a disciple, but it is clear to others watching her (non-believers as well as believers) that she is not making an effort to follow Jesus, or letting the Holy Spirit lead. In these cases, Paul says, it is important to say "that's not Christian behavior." And if the person keeps insisting the behavior is OK, then some separation is needed. It is a way to hold each other accountable to Jesus, and it is always to be done in love with mercy as the operating factor.

Lord - As Your people, we easily err on both sides of this "body of Christ" action. We judge, condemn and hurt sometimes, other times we say nothing and allow a bad representation of You continue. Help me to know when Your Spirit is telling me to love a person enough to confront them about choices or behavior. And have my heart and spirit overflowing with Your Love so that is the major component of any conversation.

(You can download the Pathway 2011 Bible reading list here.)