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I'm reading Galatians 6:1 and I'm wondering what the church is supposed to do when someone admits to adultery, molestation, etc.?

 

Galatians 6:1 says "Brethren, if a man is overtaken in any trespass, you who are spiritual restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness, considering yourself lest you also be tempted."

This passage of scripture is very clear: we are to demonstrate a Christ-like spirit to those who have fallen into any kind of sin.  Even though someone doesn't cheat on their spouse or molest children, the Lord knows that every Christian struggles with sin, but usually in other areas that are not so obvious, such as pride, covetousness, or gossip.  The point here is that we are not to shun those who have partaken in what we would consider to be "bigger" sins, in this case those relating to sex.  We should not approve or condone sin, but we should love every sinner, just as Christ died for us "while we were yet sinners"  Romans 5:8

This is especially true if a person has openly confessed to these immoral activities.  We are to forgive even as God has forgiven us (Matthew 6:12).  And the Lord not only forgives, but he also forgets.  In Isaiah 43:25, God declares, "I, even I, am He who blots out your transgressions for My own sake; And I will not remember your sins."  It would be very hypocritical for us to act coldly towards a brother or sister for a sin that they've committed in the past when God has already forgiven them.  Let's show forth the same mercy that the Lord has granted us: Psalm 103:10-12   "He has not dealt with us according to our sins, Nor punished us according to our iniquities.  For as the heavens are high above the earth, So great is His mercy toward those who fear Him;  As far as the east is from the west, So far has He removed our transgressions from us."


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