He who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.
James 5:20
One of the Christian’s greatest deterrents from sin is the life of another Christian. Some Christians maintain that it is none oftheir business if another chooses to sin. They are convinced that theyare being judgmental if they respond to someone in sin. The worldpersuades them not to get involved, but this inaction prevents themfrom being an effective intercessor. As Christians we are aware thatsin brings death (Rom. 6:23). Sin kills relationships, dismantlesmarriages, stifles joy, and destroys peace. When we see someone wander from the truth into error, how should we respond?
When Jesus saw sin,it broke His heart. He wept over entire cities as He saw themrejecting the truth (Matt. 23:37–39). He prayed fervently for Hisdisciples to be strong when they were tempted (John 17). He warnedthose who were heading toward spiritual failure (Matt. 26:20–25, 34).Jesus was even willing to die to save people from their sins becauseHe knew the devastation that sin causes. Jesus never stood idle asthose around Him were led astray by their sin. He always took anactive role in turning them back to God. “Minding your own business”will save you some discomfort, but it will not help a brother orsister who needs to return to the Lord. If you are truly aware of thegrave consequences for those who continue in sin, you will be moved toweep even as Jesus wept. Pray fervently for your friend. That willsafeguard your motives and prepare you to minister to him. Be alert,in the event that God asks you to confront your friend. If you do so,be loving and gentle lest you, too, be tempted (Gal. 6:1).
