16. Reprove a sinner

The 16th commandment of Mosaic Law is to reprove a sinner

Where in scripture?

Leviticus  19:17

Though you may have to reprove your fellow man, do not incur sin because of him.

New Testament Reference

Matthew 18:15

If your brother sins (against you), go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother.

Spiritual Works of Mercy

3. Admonish sinners;

Natural Law

We are bound to love and assist one another.

Catholic Encyclopedia

That there is, upon occasion and with due regard to circumstances, an obligation to administer fraternal correction there can be no doubt. …This is reckoned to be so only when:

·        The delinquency to be corrected or prevented is a grievous one;

·        There is no good reason to believe that the sinner will adequately provide for himself;

·        There is a well-founded expectation that the admonition will be heeded;

·        There is no one else just as well fitted for this work of Christian charity and likely to undertake it; and

·        There is no special trouble or disadvantage accruing to the reformer as a result of his zeal.

…Of course the reproof is to be administered privately, i.e. directly to the delinquent and not in the presence of others.

Conclusion

Binding on Christians