“Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition, knowing that such a person is warped and sinning, being self-condemned.”
– Titus 3:10-11
False teachers were not the only opposing forces shoving themselves against the doors of a sound church. The Apostle Paul is casting a broader net to include anyone showing divisiveness, including those who claim to be believers. We anticipate deceitfulness to rise from those contrary to the faith, yet when it arises from within our tents, it can carry devastating results.
The overarching theme of the sanctified life is grace. It cannot be emphasized enough. Jesus spoke of discipline steps to win over those in sin (Matthew 18:15-17). The Apostle Paul followed suit by exhorting correction of our fellow workers in Christ to be done with the intent of gaining them (2 Thess. 3:13-15; 2 Timothy 2:23-26). Yet when that does not take place, strict instructions apply.
Necessary correction may wound. As a physician who gives a child an essential shot, we must always correct in love. It should always be done in humility with the sole purpose of restoration. And, there must always be given ample time to repent. Just as Jesus has shown us grace and brought us into restoration with Him, may we do the same to others.
“And just as you want men to do to you, you also do to them likewise.”
– Jesus (Luke 6:31)
surrendered devotions 