“We Are Truly Guilty Concerning Our Brother”

(Genesis 42:18-22)

Introduction. When the sons of Jacob sold their brother Joseph into slavery they committed a horrible act of hatred, jealousy, and spite. As far as we know from Scripture, they did not even recognize their guilt until years later.   Although we cannot commit an act of hatred like the ten did to their brother, there are ways we can become guilty concerning our brothers and sisters in Christ.

We Can Be Guilty Concerning Our Brother By…

I.            Wounding His Feelings (Ephesians 4:32; Proverbs 15:1).

II.         Damaging His Reputation (James 4:11; Proverbs 11:13).

III.     Forsaking Him in Time of Trouble (Luke 10:30-36; Matt. 26:56; 2 Tim. 4:10, 16).

IV.     Neglecting to Pray for Him (James 5:16; Hebrews 13:18; 3 John 2).

V.         Providing a Poor Example (Hebrews 12:12-13).

VI.     Holding Malice Towards Him (Matt. 6:14-15; Ephesians 4:31-32).

VII.    Refusal to Restore Him (Galatians 6:1-2; Hebrews 10:24).

VIII.                Giving Criticism Rather than Encouragement (2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

Conclusion. It took the sons of Jacob years to confront their guilt, then thankfully, they had the chance to be restored to their brother.  If we wait years to set things right we may never have such a chance.  Hell is the wrong place to desire restoration to a brother or sister concerning whom we are guilty.