Can We Convince People of Their Sins?

Is it our job to confront and convince another Christian that they are sinning? 

Yes and no. 

When we become aware of a Christian caught in a sin, the most loving thing we can do is help them see they are headed in the wrong direction. In fact, the Bible commands it:(1)

Galatians 6:1: "Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted." 

1 Thessalonians 5:14: "Brothers and sisters, we urge you to warn those who are lazy. Encourage those who are timid. Take tender care of those who are weak. Be patient with everyone."

All of us are sinners, so before sharing with others, we must make sure that we are dealing biblically with our own sins (Matthew 7:1-5). But we don't need to be sin-free to correct another Christian.

What if the person rejects our correction? Does that mean we've failed? No. 

We can do our best to keep someone from being taken captive to do Satan's will (2 Timothy 2:24-26).

But we cannot force that person to repent if they choose to ignore and grieve the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30). 

We are responsible to lovingly warn them, but we are not responsible for their decision.(2)  

Footnotes:

(1) 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15, Matthew 18:15-17, 2 Timothy 2:24-26, and 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 also talk about confronting sinning believers.

(2) God told Jeremiah to rebuke the people for their sins even though He knew they wouldn't listen (Jeremiah 7:27). And God told Ezekiel that if he didn't warn people of their sins, their blood would be on his hands (Ezekiel 33:1-16). 

Bible Love Notes