Restoring The Fallen With Meekness

RESTORING THE FALLEN WITH MEEKNESS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Galatians 6:1 – “Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”

Supporting Texts: James 5:19-20, Luke 15:4-7, 2 Corinthians 2:7-8, Matthew 18:15, Jude 1:22-23

INTRODUCTION

One of the greatest marks of spiritual maturity is the ability to restore those who have fallen into sin with love and meekness. The Bible acknowledges that even believers can sometimes stumble. However, instead of condemnation, God calls us to be agents of restoration.

Restoring the fallen is not about ignoring sin but about helping the individual find their way back to Christ through correction in love. Sadly, many in the church today respond with judgment rather than mercy, pushing the fallen further into despair. Jesus demonstrated restoration through His dealings with the woman caught in adultery (John 8:10-11) and Peter after his denial (John 21:15-17). In this sermon, we will explore how believers can help restore others with a spirit of meekness, ensuring that they are strengthened rather than broken.

1. UNDERSTANDING THE NEED FOR RESTORATION

When a believer falls into sin, they need support, not rejection. God desires restoration, not destruction.

a) Every Believer Is Susceptible to Falling

No one is beyond the possibility of making mistakes. We must never think we are too strong to fall (1 Corinthians 10:12).

b) God’s Desire Is for Repentance and Restoration

God does not take pleasure in the downfall of anyone; He longs for them to return (Ezekiel 18:23).

c) The Church Should Be a Place of Healing, Not Condemnation

Many wounded believers leave the church because they are judged instead of being restored (Romans 14:1).

d) Restoration Strengthens the Body of Christ

When a fallen brother or sister is restored, the entire church benefits (Ephesians 4:16).

e) Biblical Example: Jesus restored Peter after his denial, giving him a renewed assignment (John 21:15-17).

2. QUALITIES NEEDED FOR RESTORING THE FALLEN

Restoring someone requires spiritual maturity and the right attitude.

a) Meekness and Humility

Correction should be done in humility, recognising that we too could be tempted (Galatians 6:1).

b) Love and Compassion

True restoration comes from a heart of love, not from a place of pride (Colossians 3:12).

c) Patience and Endurance

Some people may struggle to fully recover; patience is needed in the process (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

d) Wisdom and Discernment

Restoration must be done wisely, with an understanding of the person’s needs (Proverbs 11:30).

e) Biblical Example: Paul instructed the Corinthian church to forgive and comfort a repentant brother (2 Corinthians 2:7-8).

3. STEPS TO RESTORING THE FALLEN

Restoration is a process that must be handled with care and godly wisdom.

a) Approach the Person in Private First

It is important to address the issue with the individual personally and not publicly shame them (Matthew 18:15).

b) Speak the Truth in Love

Restoration requires honesty, but it must be expressed with love and encouragement (Ephesians 4:15).

c) Encourage Repentance and Spiritual Growth

Help the individual acknowledge their mistake and guide them toward genuine repentance (2 Timothy 2:25).

d) Offer Support and Accountability

Provide mentorship, prayer, and guidance to help them remain strong in faith (Hebrews 10:24-25).

e) Biblical Example: Nathan confronted David in love, leading him to genuine repentance (2 Samuel 12:1-13).

4. THE DANGERS OF NEGLECTING RESTORATION

When the church fails to restore the fallen, there are serious consequences.

a) The Person May Drift Further into Sin

Without restoration, the individual may continue in their fallen state, worsening their situation (James 5:19-20).

b) The Church Loses a Valuable Member

Every believer has a role in the body of Christ; losing one weakens the whole church (1 Corinthians 12:26).

c) It Opens Doors for Division and Bitterness

Harsh treatment can cause resentment, leading to unnecessary divisions in the church (Hebrews 12:15).

d) It Misrepresents Christ’s Love and Mercy

If we fail to restore, we fail to reflect the character of Jesus, who is full of grace and truth (John 1:14).

e) Biblical Example: The Pharisees condemned sinners instead of restoring them, unlike Jesus (Luke 7:36-50).

5. RESTORING OTHERS WHILE GUARDING OURSELVES

While restoring others, we must be careful not to fall into temptation ourselves.

a) Stay Rooted in the Word of God

A strong foundation in the Word protects us from falling (Psalm 119:11).

b) Maintain a Life of Prayer

Prayer keeps us spiritually strong and able to help others without falling (Matthew 26:41).

c) Set Healthy Boundaries

Helping others does not mean exposing ourselves to their weaknesses (1 Thessalonians 5:22).

d) Rely on the Holy Spirit for Guidance

We must be led by the Spirit in every step of restoration (John 16:13).

e) Biblical Example: Paul warned Timothy to be careful when correcting others so that he himself would not fall (1 Timothy 4:16).