THE CHURCH IN A CONTEMPORARY SOCIETY (32)

 When You Blindly and Ignorantly Obey the Devil's Bidding

"My friends, you are spiritual. So if someone is trapped in sin, you should gently lead that person back to the right path. But watch out, and don't be tempted yourself. You obey the law of Christ when you offer each other a helping hand."

— Galatians 6:1–2

We are living in a precarious age.

An age marked by breathtaking technological advancement, astonishing scientific discoveries, and the rapid expansion of human knowledge. Technocrats and scientists continue to unlock mysteries that once seemed impossible. These developments are remarkable and worthy of admiration.

Yet, alongside these achievements come profound challenges for humanity.

One of the most troubling realities of our time is that sin has become increasingly normalized. What was once regarded with fear and moral caution has now been trivialized and, in many circles, openly celebrated. Sin has been so demystified that many no longer recognize its destructive power until its consequences have already taken root.

Often, it takes the intervention of a spiritually discerning believer to awaken another to the deadly nature of attitudes and actions that may appear harmless on the surface.

Recently, I attended the funerals of several Christians who appeared strong, vibrant, and healthy, yet died suddenly without warning. Death overtook them swiftly, without the visible signs of sickness that usually precede such departures.

I have also prayed with men and women who were suddenly afflicted by illnesses and diseases that showed no prior indication of their imminence. In some cases, these conditions seemed unlikely to affect believers who were diligent about their health and mindful of healthy living.

At times, these realities stir deep reflection within me—even a sense of concern for my own life. These were not careless believers. They were devoted Christians whose godly character shone brightly. Their lives radiated faith, discipline, and spiritual commitment.

So one cannot help but ask: How do such things happen?

In the midst of such reflections, my mind returned to the timeless counsel of the Apostle Paul in Galatians.

His instruction is both simple and profound:

First, those who are spiritual must gently and lovingly restore anyone who is overtaken by sin.

Second, we must bear one another's burdens.

These instructions are more relevant today than ever before.

Dear brethren, we all inhabit a frail human body—one that can succumb to weakness, sickness, and even death at any time. This reality should cultivate within us a deep sense of humility, compassion, and spiritual responsibility toward one another.

Therefore, when we perceive that a brother or sister has fallen into error or is struggling with sin, we must respond with gentleness rather than harshness, compassion rather than condemnation, and restoration rather than rejection.

While sin must never be ignored, the approach to addressing it must reflect the heart of Christ.

Too often, believers rush to criticize, expose, or publicly condemn fellow Christians. Words are spoken carelessly. Judgments are pronounced hastily. Sometimes a struggling believer is treated as though he or she were the enemy rather than a wounded member of the same spiritual family.

This must not be so.

When matters concerning a fellow believer come to our attention, we must resist the temptation to assume the role of judge. Instead, we must approach the situation prayerfully, humbly, and discreetly.

Sadly, in our contemporary culture, social media has become a courtroom where believers publicly prosecute one another. Platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, and Twitter are often used to broadcast accusations and criticisms that should have been handled privately and prayerfully.

Public condemnation rarely restores anyone.

More often, it deepens wounds, creates division, and damages the testimony of the Church.

The biblical path is different. It is the path of prayer, patience, and personal engagement.

Whenever possible, we should first seek God in prayer and then approach the person privately with humility and love.

I may not be closely connected with some well-known Christian leaders, yet on a few occasions I have written to some of them personally to share my concerns about certain matters. Even when no response was received, I remained convinced that private correction is far more honorable than public condemnation.

Brethren, we still have a solemn responsibility to rescue one another from spiritual danger.

As the Psalmist reminds us, we must remain watchful against “the pestilence that walks in darkness, and the destruction that wastes at noonday.” — Psalm 91:6.

The enemy seeks every opportunity to weaken, divide, and destroy the Church. We must not unknowingly assist him by participating in the culture of condemnation.

In your effort to correct others, never step into the camp of condemnation.

Instead, plead with God for mercy. Pray earnestly. Intercede fervently for your brothers and sisters in the Secret Place.

Let your intercession be stronger than your criticism.

Let your compassion be louder than your accusations.

Let your prayers speak more powerfully than your public opinions.

This remains one of the noblest assignments entrusted to believers.

As Scripture reminds us:

"The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live. He wants everyone saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth."

— 1 Timothy 2:1–4 (MSG)

Indeed, we are living in a dangerous and spiritually demanding age.

Now more than ever before, the Church must rise to the calling of bearing one another's burdens.

Let us not become instruments through which the enemy wounds the body of Christ.

Let us not unknowingly carry out the devil's bidding by condemning and crucifying our fellow believers with our words.

Instead, let us become intercessors, restorers, and burden-bearers for the people of God.

Thank you for heeding this clarion call.

May the Lord strengthen His Church.

Amen.

*A CALL TO PRAYER PARTNERSHIP*

Can you join me as we form a circle of prayer and intercession for the Church and the saints?

If you feel led to partner in this burden of prayer, kindly connect with me and send this message:

“I WANT US TO PARTNER IN PRAYER.”

Peter Abdul-Razaq Olayinka

A Serving Missionary with Living Grace Christian Missions, Ilara

WhatsApp: +234 806 654 0987

Mobile: +234 802 849 5639 | +229 019 413 9130

Email: peterrazaq@yahoo.com

Twitter & Instagram: @peterrazaq

LinkedIn: Revd. Peter OLAYINKA