It’s troubling to see people who are almost living inside the church, always present, and yet spend their time throwing back the worst past deeds of others—especially those who have already repented and are earnestly trying to align their lives with God's will. It makes me wonder: do these people truly know the God they frequently call upon? Because the God of the Bible demonstrates mercy, grace, and forgiveness toward those who sincerely repent.
Psalm 103:12 says, "As far as the east is from the west, so far has He removed our transgressions from us." Similarly, Isaiah 43:25 reminds us that God Himself blots out our sins and remembers them no more. If God, in His perfect holiness, chooses not to keep a record of the sins of the repentant, what then gives us the right to continually remind others of their past mistakes, especially those who are now striving to live in righteousness?
It is easy to spot those who worship God only with their lips. As Matthew 15:8 says, "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me," echoing Isaiah 29:13. Attending church frequently does not automatically equate to a heart truly aligned with God. It is possible to appear religious outwardly but harbor an unforgiving, judgmental spirit that does not reflect Christ at all.
We should not be surprised when unbelievers point out the consequences of sin. It is expected that without Christ, one remains under judgment. But what is truly shameful is when those who profess faith—those who are deeply involved in church life—become the ones acting as stumbling blocks to those seeking restoration and redemption. How ironic it is when the very people who should be embodying grace instead push others away from God!
Some might use the excuse, "the church is a place for sinners," and while this is true, it does not give anyone the license to continue being judgmental, self-righteous, or unloving. The church is a hospital for the broken, yes—but it should be a place where healing, restoration, and forgiveness flourish, not a courtroom where sins are endlessly re-tried. We are called to bear one another’s burdens, not to add to them with condemnation and gossip.
Conclusion:
We must all be accountable for the souls we influence. Every action, every word spoken inside and outside the church carries weight. If we become a stumbling block to others who are sincerely trying to turn back to God, we will answer for that. Let us not forget: God calls us to love, to restore, and to be ministers of reconciliation, not of accusation. Let us worship not just with our lips but with hearts fully surrendered to God—hearts that echo His mercy and compassion.
Bible Verses for Reflection:
Psalm 103:12 (NIV) — "As far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us."
Isaiah 43:25 (NIV) — "I, even I, am he who blots out your transgressions, for my own sake, and remembers your sins no more."
Matthew 15:8 (NIV) — "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
Isaiah 29:13 (NIV) — "These people come near to me with their mouth and honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me."
