“[Jesus] turned and rebuked them.” (Luke 9:55)

“[Jesus] turned and rebuked them.” (Luke 9:55)

We normally think of a rebuke in a negative sense, as in criticizing someone sharply. However, the Greek word, elegcho, is aimed more at exposing a wrong and/or enlightening one to the truth. And there are times when all of us need to be rebuked, and there are times when we must rebuke another believer, but in love.

The Book of Proverbs clearly states that, “Open rebuke is better than secret love” (Proverbs 27:5), and 1st Corinthians 16:14 demands that we “do all things in love.” Thus, there is a proper way and an improper way of rebuking someone.

Scriptural-based rebukes begin in the heart and never stem from pride, anger, malice, jealousy, or another selfish attitude. Rebuking or “correcting” someone in love is done to benefit the individual and to encourage, rather than belittle; building someone up, instead of tearing them down.

We all sin by word, deed, and thought, but when another believer chooses sin, is harming themselves, or going down the wrong road in life, we must intervene. A rebuke is necessary at times, as we must look out for each other. And St. James writes, “Whoever turns a sinner from the error of their way will save them from death and cover a multitude of sins” (5:20).

Rebuking someone and confrontation may be difficult, but it is not loving to allow a professing Christian to continue in sinful behavior that will bring consequences upon them, their family, or their church.

Fr. John