Ecclesiastes 7:5 It is better to heed a wise mans rebuke than to listen to the song of fools.
Wow, This is one we just don't like to hear! REBUKE! Sure don't hear that one preached on very often. This one simple phrase from Solomon completely contradicts the majority of teaching today, secular and Christian.
When I read this passage today I simply smiled as I been in two different conversations within the last 24 hours that relate perfectly with the passage. Let me share with you, the two conversations, they will let us see some everyday life situations that relate to the Verse.
The first happened at a board meeting I attended last night at my church. During a time of discussion at the end of the meeting the topic of judging others came up. We have all heard that we are not to judge, after all Jesus said, "do not judge, or you too will be judged" (Paraphrase) However if we continue to study the New Testament we read in 1 Corinthians 5:9-12 Paul tells us in verse 12,13 "What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. Expel the wicked man from among you."
You you confused yet? Stick with me, let us be clear. In a seeker friendly sensitive world we love to not judge anyone. We let God decide all that judging business. And after all why not, it is really uncomfortable for us to confront someone who is living a way opposite of God's Word. The key to this discussion on judgment is to who are we judging.
For me to judge an unbeliever, I am in the wrong. It is my duty, responsibility, and calling to inform them that they are a sinner and without repentance and Trust in Jesus Christ they will suffer an eternity in Hell. However to judge them, is wrong, because they are not part of the body of Christ. They are simply living and surviving in a world of darkness, and there eyes have yet to be opened to the light of Jesus Christ. Paul said "if not for the law (10 commandments) I would not have known what sin was" (paraphrase) So to judge those who are not in the light, as if they are in the light is wrong.
Here is the catch, who does Paul say we are to judge? Those that are part of the body Christ! If we as believers know of someone who claims to be a believer and is committing adultery, it is our responsibility to confront them, and if necessary "expel" them from among us. This is not a popular teaching however it is the perfect Word of God!
Now on to my second story, Two people, both professing believers. One acting in a way, outside of Scripture was confronted by a fellow believer. Who in love, pointed out the things that where being done that were sinful according to Gods Word. And instead of 'heeding the rebuke of the wise", the person decided to become hard and angry, stating it was no ones business etc.... So you could say they "listened to the song of fools."
Action steps for today:
1) If you are aware of sinful and corrupt actions of a fellow believer, pray for strength, courage and wisdom, and confront them. Point them to the Truths found in Scripture, and in love show them the darkness they are living in.
2) If you are the one getting rebuked. Thank the person for their love for you that they would come to you as a brother or sister in Christ. And listen to their observations.
Remember we are not to judge the ungodly. However the Bible is very clear that for those claiming the name of Jesus Christ, we are to hold each other accountable. After all Paul rebuked Peter for flip flopping in his actions. Peter had more seniority, had walked with Jesus, and was told the church would be built on him. However Paul loved him enough to confront him in his sin, and you know what? Peter heeded the rebuking of the wise!
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