Practicing Christian Leadership, Mentor's Guide, MG11

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P R A C T I C I N G C H R I S T I A N L E A D E R S H I P

b. The problem with this view

(1) Such a view seems to contradict the biblical idea that God will forgive us and cleanse us from all unrighteousness if we confess our sin before him, cf. 1 John 1.7-10. (2) If it is possible to lose salvation, it doesn’t appear from these texts that simple repentance could restore it again. (3) It is simply too easy for us to pass judgment on a person’s eternal status before God based on how they’re doing this week; this is unwise, cf. 2 Cor. 10.12.

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IV. The Christian Leader as One Who Exhorts the Backsliden

A. Purpose of exhortation: edification

1. To build up the people of God in Jesus Christ: maturity , Eph. 4.15-16

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2. To see the people of God bear fruit in good works and evangelism: fruitfulness , Eph. 2.10; Matt. 5.14-16; Phil. 2.12-13

B. Principles of exhortation

1. Backed up by personal example , 1 Cor. 11.1

2. Done with grace and sensitivity to build up, not tear down , 2 Cor. 13.8

3. Built on the foundation of Christ and the Word of God , 2 Tim. 3.15-17