Reproof
Reproof6
Prof. Finney's Letters--No. 32
By Charles Finney0PRO 9:8PRO 27:6MAT 18:15GAL 6:1EPH 4:151TH 5:142TI 4:2HEB 3:13JAS 5:191PE 5:5Charles Finney addresses the Church about the critical distinction between censoriousness and Christian faithfulness, emphasizing that reproof is a necessary aspect of spiritual growth and accountability. He argues that many confuse the act of reproving sin with being judgmental, which can lead to detrimental consequences for the Church. Finney insists that ministers, like all Christians, must be open to correction and that failing to accept reproof reflects a proud spirit. He calls for a culture of compassionate and faithful reproof within the Church to ensure its health and integrity. Ultimately, he encourages a humble acceptance of correction, citing biblical examples to support his points.
Reproof a Christian Duty
By Charles Finney0LEV 19:17EZK 3:18Charles Finney emphasizes the Christian duty of reproving sin among neighbors, rooted in love for God, the community, and the individual. He argues that failing to rebuke sin is tantamount to complicity in it, and that Christians must act in accordance with God's command to avoid bearing the sins of others. Finney outlines the reasons for this duty, the manner in which it should be performed, and the exceptions to the rule, urging believers to be courageous in their reproofs to foster a righteous society. He warns against the dangers of silence and encourages a proactive approach to confronting sin, highlighting the potential for reproof to lead to repentance and salvation. Ultimately, he calls for a consistent and faithful practice of this command to uphold God's honor and the well-being of the community.
The Duty of Reproving Our Neighbor
By John Wesley0LEV 19:17MAT 7:1John Wesley emphasizes the duty of reproving our neighbor as an act of love, rooted in the command from Leviticus 19:17. He explains that reproving involves addressing sin and error in others, and that we are called to do this for everyone, especially those close to us, as neglecting this duty equates to hating our brother in our heart. Wesley outlines the importance of approaching reproof with love, humility, and meekness, ensuring that our intentions are clear and our manner is respectful. He encourages believers to be diligent in this labor of love, trusting that God will bring about fruit in due time, and highlights that a spirit of reproving is essential for a genuine revival of faith.
The Self-Hardening Sinner's Doom
By Charles Finney0PRO 29:1ISA 55:6EZK 18:30MAT 24:44ROM 2:42CO 6:21TH 5:3HEB 3:15JAS 4:17REV 3:19Charles Finney delivers a powerful sermon on the dire consequences of hardening one's heart against God's reproof. He emphasizes that God reproves sinners through His Word, providence, and Spirit, aiming to lead them to repentance and salvation. Finney warns that those who repeatedly resist these reproofs will face sudden destruction without remedy, highlighting the urgency of heeding God's warnings. The sermon serves as a solemn reminder of the dangers of spiritual insensitivity and the importance of responding to divine correction before it is too late.
The Destruction of the Wicked
By Charles Finney0PRO 29:1ISA 55:6EZK 18:30MAT 24:44LUK 13:3ROM 2:52CO 6:2HEB 3:15JAS 4:10REV 3:19Charles Finney delivers a powerful sermon on the consequences of hardening one's heart against God's reproof, emphasizing that persistent refusal to heed divine warnings leads to sudden and irrevocable destruction. He explains that God reproves the wicked through various means, including providence, scripture, and conscience, and that hardening one's neck symbolizes stubborn resistance to these reproofs. Finney warns that such destruction is not only sudden but also without remedy, as it is a just consequence of one's own rebellion against God. He calls for self-examination and humility, urging listeners to recognize the seriousness of their spiritual state before it is too late.
The Challenge of Love
By Charles Finney0LEV 19:17EZK 33:7Charles Finney emphasizes the moral obligation of Christians to reprove their neighbors for sin, arguing that true love for God and others compels us to confront wrongdoing. He illustrates that failing to do so makes us complicit in the sin and endangers the souls of those we neglect to warn. Finney likens this duty to warning a neighbor of a fire, asserting that silence in the face of sin is akin to cruelty. He stresses that reproof should be done with love and wisdom, tailored to the relationship and circumstances of the individual. Ultimately, he calls Christians to be courageous in their duty to uphold God's commands and to actively oppose sin in their communities.