James 5:19-20
The Bible reminds us that heaven rejoices over a sinner who comes home. The church must be in the business of restoring the fallen.
Everyone Needs Divine Restoration: v. 19a
My brothers, if one of you should wander from the truth. . .
1. The whole world stands guilty . Romans 3:19
Now we know that whatever the law says, it says to those who are under the law, so that every mouth may be silenced and the whole world held accountable to God.
2. The lost must receive the Word of God. John 1:11-12
He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him. 12Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God
3. The saved must live by the Word. John 17:17
Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.
As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us (Psalm 103:12).
Church Leadership Must Follow God’s Pattern for Restoration: v. 19b
. . .bring him back,
1. Pray for wisdom . James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
2. Be sensitive . 2 Corinthians 6:3-7
We put no stumbling block in anyone’s path, so that our ministry will not be discredited. 4Rather, as servants of God we commend ourselves in every way: in great endurance; in troubles, hardships and distresses; 5in beatings, imprisonments and riots; in hard work, sleepless nights and hunger; 6in purity, understanding, patience and kindness; in the Holy Spirit and in sincere love; 7in truthful speech and in the power of God; with weapons of righteousness in the right hand and in the left;
3. Confront with humility . Galatians 6:1
Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted.
4. Show love and compassion . James 5:11
As you know, we consider blessed those who have persevered. You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about. The Lord is full of compassion and mercy.
5. Encourage repentance . Acts 2:38
Peter replied, Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
6. Demonstrate forgiveness . Acts 26:18
to open their eyes and turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan to God, so that they may receive forgiveness of sins and a place among those who are sanctified by faith in me.
The Church Fellowship Should Enjoy the Benefits of Restoration: v. 20
Remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.
1. We are all sinners saved by grace .
2. We are not perfect , just forgiven.
3. We should commit ourselves to the ministry of reconciliation. 2 Corinthians 5:19-21
that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation. 20We are therefore Christ’s ambassadors, as though God were making his appeal through us. We implore you on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God. 21God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.
