What does the Bible say about rebuking?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that rebuke, given truthfully and lovingly, is a necessary means of correcting sin, restoring the wandering, and protecting the church’s holiness. Proverbs 27:5-6 commends faithful wounds from a friend over flattering silence. Jesus directs believers first to address a sinning brother privately, then with witnesses and the church if needed, always seeking repentance and restoration (Matthew 18:15-17; Luke 17:3-4). Galatians 6:1 calls the spiritual to restore gently while watching themselves. Public, persistent sin may require public rebuke for the good of others (1 Timothy 5:20). Scripture equips God’s people to teach, reprove, correct, and train in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 4:2).
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Rankings: OpenBible.info Topical Bible (CC BY) · Scripture: World English Bible
- Proverbs 27:5
Better is open rebuke Than hidden love.
- Matthew 18:15-17
[15] "If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. [16] But if he doesn't listen, take one or two more with you, that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. [17] If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as a Gentile or a tax collector.
- 1 Timothy 5:20
Those who sin, reprove in the sight of all, that the rest also may be in fear.
- Galatians 6:1
Brothers, even if a man is caught in some fault, you who are spiritual must restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to yourself so that you also aren't tempted.
- Titus 2:15
Say these things and exhort and reprove with all authority. Let no man despise you.
- 2 Timothy 4:2
preach the word; be urgent in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with all patience and teaching.
- 2 Timothy 3:16-17
[16] Every writing inspired by God is profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for instruction which is in righteousness, [17] that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.
- James 5:20
let him know that he who turns a sinner from the error of his way will save a soul from death, and will cover a multitude of sins.
- Luke 17:3-4
[3] Be careful. If your brother sins against you, rebuke him. If he repents, forgive him. [4] If he sins against you seven times in the day, and seven times returns, saying, 'I repent,' you shall forgive him."
- Proverbs 27:6
Faithful are the wounds of a friend; Although the kisses of an enemy are profuse.
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