Brothers, Even In Contest

2 Thessalonians 3:15 KJV

Yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Here is an intimation of the Christian spirit in discipline. If we must

• Rebuke
• Separate
• Correct

another in some way, we must not do it in an adversarial spirit but as a brother. 

• With care
• With concern
• With prayers for reconciliation some day

Though there are times when a contest between brothers is essential, we ought never to forget we are still brothers. 

Another lesson clearly implied in the text is that a Christian can disagree with us, even to the place we must break fellowship, and still be a Christian. We are so prone to label anyone not just like us, and especially the one who is involved in sin, as not really saved. Truth is we just don't know that. Though the Bible clearly teaches that there are those who return to the world because they never were saved, that is not to true of everyone who falls. Some have simply slipped and need someone who is spiritual to restore them. 

General Grant and President Lincoln met near the close of the Civil War. Grant knew his capturing Robert E. Lee was inevitable. As the discussion drew near a close Grant asked Lincoln what he wanted him to do with Lee. Lincoln's reply was "Go easy on him." Lincoln understood that, though they had contested, they were still brothers. 

For a further thought click here:

http://mckenzie-visit-with-god.blogspot.com/2008/03/how-to-love-brethren.html

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