Ask a Pastor Column

Q: I know we are supposed to hate the sin but love the sinner. I am having trouble with that. Can you help with how to do that? (Part Two of Two)

A: Last week we talked about our need as believers to have compassion on sinners, having the same understanding and mercy for them that God has for us (Matthew. 18:28-35). However, we can go too far in the opposite direction if our concern for sinners leads us to be soft or “wishy-washy” about sin itself. The Bible maintains a perfect balance between firm condemnation of sin and love for the sinner. We must strive for the same tension and balance as...