Remember this: Whoever turns a sinner from the error of his way will save him from death and cover over a multitude of sins.

James 5:20

First of all we must keep in mind that James is writing to born again believers in Jesus Christ, that is why he calls them “brothers and sisters”. The Word of God is telling us here that when a believer wanders from the truth, either in doctrine or practice, it is the responsibility of the oversight of the church (elders, deacons, pastor) to fervently pray for and lovingly try and guide that person back to Christ. This is not just the responsibility of the church leaders, it is also for us who may have a church brother or sister, Christian friend or family member who goes through the same experience (Colossians 3:16). We are to lovingly try and restore them to godly living and thinking (Galatians 6:1).

We are told that whoever guides this wayward believer back to God covers a multitude of sins. When this Christian returns to the family of God we are to love them, forgive them, and shower them with acceptance. Their sins are forgiven and forgotten by God and we are to do so as well! There is to be no “sitting in judgment” on this person and bringing up their past sins, those sins are covered under the blood of Christ and no one can or should dig them up!

Gracious Father, please be with those who are living in rebellion against you. Use us to be your agents of restoration to bring them home to you and help them discover your grace, mercy, and forgiveness, all made possible through Your love, the Holy Spirit, and the blood of Christ. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.