Articles
Surprise, I'm not Perfect!
Being able to admit you’re not perfect is an important part of becoming and being a
Christian. In the beginning of our journey to become Christians we must understand that we are
sinful and need forgiveness. (Romans 3:23) As we continue as Christians we must understand
the need to remove sin from our lives. (Galatians 5:19-21) As a mature Christian we must
understand the need for continued vigilance and ongoing improvement drawing ever closer to the
standard of perfection which is Jesus Christ (1 Peter 5:8).
God has put things in place to help us on this journey toward perfection. Just like
children, we often need correction. God has given us a loving family to help us and support us
along the way. “Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should
restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted” (Galatians
6:1).
As we mature we may find that we are the ones who have the responsibility to talk to
someone about an area they are struggling with. “If your brother sins against you, go and tell
him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother. But
if he does not listen, take one or two others along with you, that every charge may be established
by the evidence of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church. And
if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector”
(Matthew 18:15-17).
Sometimes, when all else has failed, sin must be exposed in front of the entire
congregation. This acts as a teaching tool and warning to all the other members to help them
avoid this same sin, and as a final attempt to reach that person who has refused to repent of the
sin that has been pointed out to them. “As for those who persist in sin, rebuke them in the
presence of all, so that the rest may stand in fear” (1 Timothy 5:20).
Sinful behavior is harmful to the entire body. As a member of the body, our actions affect
those around us, and affects how people in the world see the church. “As for a person who stirs
up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing
that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned” (Titus 3:10-11). ~ Brad Tolbert
