Sermon Notes
Sermon Title: Confronting Sin
Speaker: Pastor Ryan
Last Week’s Message Recap
Last week, we discussed how we often try to cover up our sins and ignore them. We may say, “God forgave me, so I’m fine,” but continue in our sinful ways.
What sins have you been ignoring or covering up in your life?
We explored different ways people deal with sin:
- Hide: Repent but can’t beat it, so we keep it a secret.
- Sweep under the rug: Everyone knows it, but we try to minimize it.
- Justify sin: Rationalize it, believing it’s okay for various reasons.
The Story of Nathan and David
We’re looking at a story told by Nathan, David’s spiritual advisor and prophet in his court.
Have you ever had someone confront you about your sin when you weren’t willing to confront it yourself?
Nathan tells a story of two men in one city, one rich and one poor.
Reflect on the story of the rich man and the poor man. What lessons can you draw from it?
Scripture Passage: 2 Samuel 12:1–15 (NIV)
1 The Lord sent Nathan to David. When he came to him, he said, “There were two men in a certain town, one rich and the other poor…
What stood out to you in this passage?
When and How to Confront Sin
Matthew 7:1 (NIV): “Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”
How do you interpret the verse “Do not judge”?
Despite this verse, God calls us to confront one another when we are in sin.
When do you think it’s appropriate to confront someone about their sins, and how should it be done?
The purpose of the Law is to lead us to Christ:
Scripture Passage: Galatians 2:19 (NIV)
19 “For through the law I died to the law so that I might live for God.”
How has the Law led you to Christ in your life?
We confront sin for restoration and reconciliation:
- To restore the offender’s relationship with God.
- To prevent the spread of sin to others.
- To protect the purity of the church and honor Christ.
Guidelines for Confrontation
We shouldn’t confront every little sin.
What criteria should we use to determine when to confront someone about their sin?
Confrontation should start in private, one-on-one.
Have you ever had a one-on-one confrontation regarding your own sin? How did it impact you?
If necessary, involve a few witnesses.
How might having witnesses help or hinder the process of confrontation?
If all else fails, involve the church.
When should a church be involved in confronting sin, and what role should it play?