[Sweet Pea]

Galatians 6:1

"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted." (KJV)

"Dear brothers and sisters, if another believer is overcome by some sin, you who are godly should gently and humbly help that person back onto the right path. And be careful not to fall into the same temptation yourself." (NLT)

"Brothers, if someone is caught in a sin, you who are spiritual should restore him gently. But watch yourself, or you also may be tempted." (NIV)



One of the most memorable messages I ever heard was over 30 years ago at a District Conference. "So You Say You Love the Word" - This scripture was the text and that message dealt directly with restoration. It was a powerful message - I've never forgotten it! I've thought of it on many occasions. The man who preached this message pretty much told all the ministers there - you don't really love the Word of God, if you will cast out one of our own after he has fallen. This scripture is just as much the Word of God as any other in the Bible.

I sat under Bishop Haney until he became Gen. Supt. - He was the most kind-hearted man when it came to restoration. MANY fallen ministers (and wives) have been given an opportunity to be a part of his congregation and be restored. Some were even restored to what many thought was a lost pulpit ministry. Some were restored spiritually and became solid lay ministers. (BTW, Bishop Haney is not the minister that preached the message I mentioned above. )