The Sins of Others
E. Bersier, D. D. Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness… Consider — I. THE EFFECT PRODUCED BY THE FALLS OF OTHERS. 1. Here is a worldly company. A scandal is disclosed; what malignant joy it occasions. 2. But what shall we say when that detestable joy is shared by Christians? (1) Over the adversaries of the faith, (2) and, alas! over fallen Christians also. 3. Who are we to condemn the fallen? (1) Have we never erred? (2) Have we had no secret inclination to equivalent transgression? (3) Did we strive to prevent our brother falling? (4) Was he blessed with our privileges? 4. Thus a brother's fall should produce in us, not censure, but self-examination and humiliation. II. WHAT ARE WE TO DO IS ORDER TO WISE THEM? 1. The nearer a being lives to God the more deeply it feels compassion and mercy. (1) As proved by the angels who sang hymns of redemption and rejoice over returning sinners. (2) As proved by the infinite tenderness of Christ. 2. The least that we can do is to give our fallen brother our sympathy. 3. But this is not enough. (1) There is a sympathy which is mere weakness. (2) You must have for your brother a love without weakness, a holiness without pride. (3) You must point him to the Saviour. (4) We cannot raise souls en masse, but only by individuals. III. Conclusion: 1. What an honour to raise a fallen soul. 2. Christ the Raiser has called you to this. 3. Have you not lost some soul? (E. Bersier, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. WEB: Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren't tempted.