Building Up the Church in Love

As we continue our journey in The Call for Truth, let’s anchor ourselves in our shared purpose: to lovingly build up the bride of Christ—the Church—by pointing one another back to the unchanging truth of God’s Word. This isn’t about tearing down the church but about encouraging deeper faithfulness with humility, recognizing our own imperfections. Our foundation is Jesus’ declaration in John 14:6, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” God’s Word is our anchor, as Psalm 119:160 affirms, “The entirety of Your word is truth, And every one of Your righteous judgments endures forever.” And in John 17:17, Jesus prays for us: “Sanctify them by your truth; your word is truth.” Let’s pursue this sanctification together, grounded in His truth alone.

For those in a house of worship or Christian community drifting toward cultural trends over biblical truth, it’s natural to feel concerned. But God hasn’t left us without guidance. Below are practical, Scripture-backed steps to navigate these challenges with humility, love, and reliance on the Lord. Our aim, as Ephesians 4:15 reminds us, is to “speak the truth in love,” focusing on restoration, not division.

1. Begin with Prayer and Self-Examination

Start by seeking God’s wisdom through prayer, asking for discernment and a humble heart. Don’t rush to act without checking your motives or your own cultural tendencies that also need confessing. James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him.” Also, heed Matthew 7:3-5: “And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? 4Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” This ensures a gentle, non-hypocritical approach, aligning with our goal of building up the church.

2. Lovingly Address the Issue Privately and Directly

If you notice a drift—perhaps in teachings, practices, or values—approach the person or leadership privately and lovingly. Share concerns rooted in Scripture, not personal opinions, aiming for understanding and correction. Matthew 18:15-17 outlines this: “Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.” And Galatians 6:1 adds, “Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted.” This step is about restoration in love, not condemnation. Be willing to listen more than you speak.

3. Strive for Peace While Holding Firm to Truth

Do all you can to maintain unity and peace, even if it’s uncomfortable. True peace comes from alignment with God’s Word, not cultural compromise. You are responsible for your faithful, loving response—not others’ reactions. Romans 12:18 instructs, “If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men.” Pair this with Ephesians 4:15’s call to “speak the truth in love.” If met with hostility, Proverbs 15:1 reminds us, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Approach with gentleness to foster dialogue, not division.

4. Seek Godly Counsel and Community Accountability

If private conversations do not lead to change, involve wise, mature believers for broader perspective—elders, mentors, or outside advisors. Proverbs 11:14 says, “Where there is no counsel, the people fall; But in the multitude of counselors there is safety.” Per Matthew 18, this builds accountability. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together… but encouraging one another.” Use this to guide the community back to truth, always aiming to edify.

5. If Necessary, Prayerfully Consider Separation

As a last resort, if the community persists in false teaching or unrepentant sin, you may need to withdraw to protect your faith and find a fellowship that honors God’s truth. This isn’t abandoning the Church universal but seeking a healthier expression of Christ’s bride. 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 warns, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers… Therefore go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord.” Similarly, 2 Timothy 2:22 advises, “Flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace, along with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart.” And Titus 3:10-11 adds, “As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him.” Separate with grief and prayer, not self-righteousness.

Navigating these situations is challenging, but God equips us through His Word to respond with grace. If you’re facing this, you’re not alone—reach out to us or trusted believers for support. Let’s commit to being part of the solution, building up the Church by clinging to the truth that sanctifies us. God bless you!