Restoring the fallen is a divine calling but not without its risks and challenges. While this article primarily addresses pastors, the principles apply to all who feel compelled to help restore those who have strayed. The ministry of restoration carries a price, and those who undertake it must count the cost. The Bible commands restoration, yet wisdom dictates that we prepare for the potential consequences of fulfilling this responsibility.
1. The Risk of Recurrence
There is always the possibility that the individual being restored may fall again. This is a reality that must be faced with resolve and compassion. “For a just man falleth seven times, and riseth up again” (Proverbs 24:16). Restoration must not be conditional upon a one-time failure. We extend grace to those battling recurring sins, whether it be addiction or moral failure, understanding that God’s mercy knows no limit. Refusing to restore because of potential relapse contradicts the very heart of the Gospel.
2. The Risk of Insincerity
The heart of the fallen cannot always be fully known. There is a risk that repentance may be surface-level or temporary. However, Scripture instructs us to restore those overtaken in a fault, not based on perceived sincerity but on the simple reality of their condition. “Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). Our role is obedience, leaving the true judgment of the heart to God.
3. The Risk of Criticism
Restoring the fallen invites scrutiny and sometimes condemnation from others. Prejudice and personal feelings can cloud judgment, leading some to believe that certain individuals are beyond redemption. Yet, “Judge not, that ye be not judged” (Matthew 7:1). Restoring a brother or sister should never hinge on public opinion but on the command of Christ to forgive and restore.
4. The Risk of Public Slander
In the digital age, the internet often becomes a battleground where fallen individuals are publicly dissected. Associating with those who have been publicly disgraced can invite unwanted attention and slander. Yet, Jesus was known as “a friend of publicans and sinners” (Luke 7:34). The willingness to stand with the broken, despite public criticism, reflects the character of Christ.
5. The Risk of Losing Friendships
Restoring a fallen brother or sister can lead to severed relationships. Some may distance themselves, unwilling to be associated with such efforts. Jesus warned of this reality: “And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved” (Matthew 10:22). True friendship may be tested, but faithfulness to God’s call must prevail.
6. The Risk of Losing Church Members
Restoring a fallen church member can provoke division within the congregation. Some may demand exclusion, threatening to leave if the individual is allowed to remain. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). The church must choose between the temporary discomfort of division or the eternal joy of redemption.
7. The Risk of Inconvenience
Restoration is rarely convenient. It requires time, emotional investment, and patience. The fallen often bring with them emotional and relational baggage that requires ongoing support. “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not” (Galatians 6:9). True love is willing to be inconvenienced for the sake of another’s healing.
8. The Risk of Disappointment
Despite best efforts, not every restoration story ends in success. As a surgeon faces the risk of losing a patient, so the spiritual restorer faces the possibility of failure. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful” (Proverbs 27:6). Even if the one being restored ultimately turns away, the act of obedience to God’s call remains valuable.
9. The Risk of Humiliation
Restorers may experience public embarrassment if further sins or undisclosed failures come to light. The shame of association can feel overwhelming. “He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her” (John 8:7). Risking reputation to restore the broken is a mark of true discipleship, mirroring Christ’s compassion.
10. The Risk of Betrayal
Those who are restored may ultimately turn against those who helped them. This betrayal, painful as it may be, must not deter the ministry of restoration. “But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest thou the Son of man with a kiss?” (Luke 22:48). Even the Savior faced betrayal from those closest to Him.
Counting the Cost but Pursuing the Call
The risks of restoration are real, but the rewards far outweigh them. The joy of seeing a life reclaimed, the privilege of obeying Christ’s command, and the hope of eternal impact provide lasting benefits. “Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him; Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins” (James 5:19-20). Restoration is not optional; it is the heart of the Gospel.
May all who step into the ministry of restoration do so with open eyes and prepared hearts, understanding the liabilities not to avoid the call, but to persevere through the challenges that lie ahead. God’s blessings accompany those who labor in the quiet work of redemption, reflecting His grace and mercy to a world in need.