OUTLINE:

The Good Shepherd
The Lord pursued us with relentless love, Mt 18:12-14, Jn 10:11-15. And now that we believers are saved, how much more should we be confident in His love??? Ro 8:28-35

Forgiveness…Then What?
The Bible clearly tells us, especially in the churches, that while forgiveness is necessary, it isn’t the last thing we must consider when dealing with sin.

Ro 12:18
If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men.

“as a Gentile and a tax collector”
These were derisive titles to Jews. The point Jesus was making was that someone so impenitent has revealed an unbeliever’s obstinate heart, thus requiring defensive actions to protect the church.

Php 4:7
And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Love and Peace Preserved
God uses those who “keep watch over your souls” (Heb 13:17) along with the “word implanted” (Jas 1:21) in order to “equip” you “for the building up of the Body of Christ” (Eph 4:11-12).

The Good Shepherd
The Lord pursued us with relentless love, Mt 18:12-14, Jn 10:11-15. And now that we believers are saved, how much more should we be confident in His love??? Ro 8:28-35

God Is Practical
When God directs His children to walk a certain way, He expects their obedience; and if they refuse, they must face His wrath. (e.g. Ez 20:10-21; Eph 5:6; 2Co 10:3-9)

The Supernatural Word
To see/hear truly ugly/offensive things without losing our peace is supernatural. This is not a blessing for those who refuse the way in which God imparts such things (Jn 4:24; Jas 1:21-27).