Question 1

Why is it important to confront others when they’ve done something wrong?

Accepted Answer

Ephesians 5:11Take no part in the worthless deeds of evil and darkness; instead, expose them.Evil and wickedness must be confronted. Left unchecked, they will grow until they overpower you and those you love.2 Samuel 12:1, 7, 13So the Lord sent Nathan the prophet to tell David this story. . . . “There were two men in a certain town. One was rich, and one was poor. . . . Then Nathan said to David, “You are that man! . . . Then David confessed to Nathan, “I have sinned against the Lord.”Luke 17:3“So watch yourselves! If another believer sins, rebuke that person; then if there is repentance, forgive.”Confronting someone who does wrong may lead them back into reconciliation with God and others.

Question 2

How do I effectively confront others?

Accepted Answer

Matthew 18:15-17“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses. If the person still refuses to listen, take your case to the church. Then if he or she won’t accept the church’s decision, treat that person as a pagan or a corrupt tax collector.”Go to the person and confront him or her in private. If he or she does not listen, go with another concerned friend. If he or she still refuses to listen, take the matter to the spiritual leaders of your church for guidance and advice.Nehemiah 13:11I immediately confronted the leaders and demanded, “Why has the Temple of God been neglected?” Then I called all the Levites back again and restored them to their proper duties.When it is necessary, confrontation is best done as soon as possible.Proverbs 27:5An open rebuke is better than hidden love!2 Timothy 2:24-25A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. Gently instruct those who oppose the truth. Perhaps God will change those people’s hearts, and they will learn the truth.Titus 3:2They must not slander anyone and must avoid quarreling. Instead, they should be gentle and show true humility to everyone.The manner of confrontation is as important as the content. It is essential to consider how you would want someone to speak to you. Be straightforward, but confront the person in private, without quarreling and anger. Approach gently with kindness and patience. Then let God change the person’s heart!2 Timothy 1:7God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.When confrontation is necessary, ask God to give you the power, love, and self-discipline to say what you must.

Question 3

How should I respond when others confront me?

Accepted Answer

Proverbs 19:25If you punish a mocker, the simpleminded will learn a lesson; if you correct the wise, they will be all the wiser.Proverbs 27:17As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.Confrontation should increase your wisdom. Listen, and see if you can grow wiser.Proverbs 27:5An open rebuke is better than hidden love!Appreciate honesty—especially in cases where you know that someone cares enough about you to want what is best for you.