Very few weeks go by without a news story about a prominent Christian who has been caught in sin. This becomes a common theme that people expect when they hear things about the American church.
But it’s even more jarring that every church has moral failings by people within the body. Some of these are big and noticed by others; others of these failings go unnoticed except by those who are closest to the situation. The saddest indictment of any body of Christians is not whether individuals become caught in sin. The strength of the body of Christ is the way in which they love those who are caught in sin.
The test of life by the spirit is how we respond to brothers and sisters who find themselves ensnared.
Galatians 6:1
Discussion Questions
- Who are the “brothers” being addressed in Galatians 6:1?
- What is meant by “caught in any transgression?”
- How can a Christian be caught in transgression?
- Why are we not the ones commanded to “catch” brothers in transgressions?
- How have you seen sin devastatingly catch yourself or someone you love?
- What does it mean to be spiritual in this context (refer to the previous verses in Galatians 5)?
- What does it mean when a Christian caught in a transgression is restored?
- How does the spirit bear gentleness as a fruit in our lives?
- Why do you think restoration should be done in a spirit of gentleness?
- Why do people caught in sin trust people who exhibit gentleness?
- What are the restorers supposed to keep a watch on themselves for?
- Why is pride such a pervasive temptation for Christians who spend their time restoring brothers?
- How do you think God might intend to use you as a spiritual restorer?
- What steps are you taking to keep watch on yourself?