Should Christians Rebuke Others?

I have both a Biology Test to do, and genetics questions, yet cannot seem to get something off of my mind. No doubt that by now, you have heard some kind of comment about women and the way they dress during Halloween. Since I am neither a woman, nor a fashion expert, I am definitely not qualified to make any comment on it. Since I am a Christian, a follower of Christ, and a representative of Him to the world, I do feel qualified to comment on the Christian’s reaction to those who partake in the bizarre event known as the way people dress on Halloween.

The first major reaction that I see is nothing. People don’t say anything due to fear, apathy, or any other numerous reasons. Many people see Halloween as no different as women wearing a swimsuit during the summertime, and with such a view, hold back judgement on those who (in my opinion) dress funny on Halloween. Although I don’t fully believe in this approach, I find it a lot less damaging than the next response that has driven this post.

The second response that I see from Christians is one of passionate rebuke. Christians are quick to condemn these women as “skanky, sluttish, and whore-ish, yet believe that since they are not calling that person a skank, slut, or whore directly; that it is appropriate to use these words. In giving those who hold this opinion the benefit of the doubt; I will say that this passionate response comes from a desire to see their friends, families, or even complete strangers dressed in a way that is ultimately respectful to that person. Yet, the righteous desire does not permit, or justify, the use of words that are ultimately condemning, degrading, and judgmental of that person. Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Imagine if you were that person who decided to wear a little less, and you had someone judging your character on the clothes you were wearing for one night. Now imagine if you didn’t even know the person making that judgement. That person then proclaims to be a Christian. How do you feel towards the judge, Christians, and Christ Himself? I can tell you that by the reactions of my friends who partake in such an event, these people feel hurt, judged, and angry towards not only the judge (effectively eliminating any credibility that Christian once had- hindering their ability to minister), but also toward all Christians, and even being angry towards Christ for the hypocrisy of His followers.


For anyone acquainted with the New Testament they will immediately point to verses that permit the rebuking of others. Although there are many verses of the sort, we can examine Jesus’ words in regard to the correction of others’ actions. Luke 17:3: “So watch yourselves. If your brother or sister sins against you, rebuke them; and if they repent, forgive them.” Yet, I would like to point out something. Christ first says, “So watch yourselves…” Correction is a very personal matter and although Paul instructs it to be done in front of others (possibly for a variety of reasons, such as accountability- the same as having a witness present to attest that everything was said and done appropriately) it is initiated when you, personally, are wronged. We see this in the following of “if your brother sins against you rebuke them, and if they repent forgive them.” Instructions are given later in 1Timothy 5 that say: “1 Do not sharply rebuke an older man, but rather appeal to him as a father, to the younger men as brothers, 2 the older women as mothers, and the younger women as sisters, in all purity.” Here there are two important things, 1) “Do not sharply rebuke…” without feeling the need to define sharply, let’s just use the word respectfully. 2) In all purity… examine your own actions for the rebuking. Is it coming from the love of that person, or are you just using that as an excuse to passionately condemn someone who isn’t following the rules? How can you tell what your motivation is? If you havn't talked to that person or bothered to keep a relationship with that person, it probably isn't the former.If you have worked to keep a relationship with that person: Be careful of the words that are used, and realize whenever you use the word you, you are making it a personal statement: make sure you aren’t attacking the character of your brother by describing an action. (sucks when someone emphasizes you huh?) I also feel the need to mention, that rebuking should be done by someone close who they will receive it from.

Another thing that is important to point out. Christ mentions a “brother” (For this usage, sister is also appropriate), The Bible defines the word “brother” in two ways. 1) A biological connection between two people (Mathew 13:55). And as a unification of believers (1 Corinthians 12). Neither one of these contexts is used for the unbelievers. With this established, it is not the role of a Christian to rebuke those who do not believe, it is a Christian’s role to love them. Take a look at the encounter with the Samaritan woman in John 8. When accused by the Pharisees of adultery, despite her guilt, Christ responds, “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” Verse ten then says: “Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?” ¹¹ “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.” If Jesus didn’t condemn a sinner, then neither should Christians. He left the adulteress with an encouragement, not a judgement.

With my feelings expressed, I can only leave you with my hope: May you use your passion to uplift those who believe, and those who don’t. May you be respectful of all people: encouraging whenever possible, and correcting only when necessary. May you always remember the power of your words, and the power that you have to affect others. Finally, may you always remember the love that Christ has for each and every person, and let that love drive you to love others.

-Chris