Morning Star

For the Morning Star.

Scripture Exposition. No. 101.

He that rebuketh a man, afterwards shall find more favor than he that flattereth with his tongue. Prov. 28:23.

Christians are required by the Great Head of the church to labor for the salvation of their fellow men. They are in this respect to sustain the character of "the light of the world" and "the salt of the earth." In order for this, two things are necessary. A holy, exemplary life, in which the principles of the gospel shall be exhibited; and faithful counsel, admonitions and reproof, given to those who are living in sin. The wicked are in danger. Their feet stand on slippery places, and they do not realize it. Those who go into the sanctuary of the Lord, and see their awful end, are under obligation to reprove them, and exhort them to turn and live. It is frequently the case, that the particular sins of which men are guilty, are to be pointed out publicly, and they who offend be rebuked before others. "Them that sin rebuke before all that others also may fear." I Tim. 5:20. Liars, thieves, fornicators, adulterers, Sabbath-breakers, slanderers, swearers, drunkards, and slave-holders, or any who apologise for either of these sins, are of the class that should be publicly rebuked. Now some appear to fear the consequences, being afraid of making a division or stirring up opposition. Others feel so kind to sinners that they cannot bear to probe deep and touch to the quick. And so they sympathize with them for being so unfortunate as to have fallen into some sins, or let them go on without telling them plainly and pointedly of the aggravated nature of their offences against a holy God. But this will not do. It is but flattering them that all is well, or leaving them with the impression that their danger is not great. He that rebuketh a man, afterward shall find more favor than he that flattereth with his tongue. The wicked may be offended if we tell them the truth and expose their abominations. But, in most cases, they feel in their hearts that we are right, and there is a secret respect for us. But when they are on the dying bed they will wish for the faithful instead of the flatterer to come and talk and pray with them. And then in the judgment, they will not curse us for not telling them of their danger. If we shall be so happy as to hear the Judge say to us, "Well done good and faithful servant," it will be favor enough. Then we shall be swift witnesses against those who have not obeyed the truth. Then we shall say Amen, when Christ bids them depart. And then everlasting joy will be upon our heads and sighing forever flee away.

J. F.