“Be like Jesus” is the mantra of many Christians today—except when it comes to helping sinners. The poor treatment of the fallen is justified through unscriptural practices and pronouncements of judgment by these modern-day “elder brothers.” Their warnings, plus their unwillingness to participate in that in which Jesus participated, reveal their unspiritual lives (Galatians 6:1). Their lack of spirituality is also evident in their gossip, slander, and innuendoes concerning those involved.

I am certain these individuals would have had rocks in their hands to throw at the woman caught in the act of adultery. They would have boycotted Pentecost because Peter—who had been restored multiple times—was preaching. I have been amazed at the times someone has reached out to me on social media to “explain” why I am wrong for restoring prodigals at the Father’s table or why the critic is justified in their attacks simply because I am being a friend to the fallen.

I am grateful to be doing the work in which Jesus also was involved.

How can a pastor or preacher be critical of this work? I know the answer and will write about it at a later time.

As for me, I look forward to a month of restoration emphasis in September at Immanuel Baptist Church. Wait until some find out about that—a whole month dedicated to helping Christians get back to God. How horrible (insert eye roll).

While I have my flaws, I have no regrets about choosing to spend my efforts helping prodigals to come home rather than just reminding them that they are prodigals. Therefore, at Immanuel Baptist Church, we are increasing our efforts to restore. Let me encourage you to do the same.

Here is one thing that I believe is true: the restoration revolution is coming.

The critics will never stop the work of Jesus.