“If we [claim to] live by the spirit, we must also walk by the spirit [with personal integrity, godly character, and moral courage – our conduct empowered by the spirit. We must not become conceited, challenging or provoking one another, envying one another.
Brothers, if anyone is caught in any sin, you who are spiritual [that is, you who are responsive to the guidance of the spirit] are to restore such a person in a spirit of gentleness [not with a sense of superiority or self-righteousness], keeping a watchful eye on yourself, so that you are not tempted as well.”
Clarke’s Comment Commentary (Volume 6, pp. 414-415)
“Christianity requires us to esteem each other better than ourselves, or in honour to prefer one another…
“If someone is surprised, seized without warning, or taken before he is aware…use no severity or haughtiness towards him…he is already deeply humbled and distressed, and needs much encouragement and leniency…
“It is no wonder if a harsh and cruel censurer of a weak, backsliding brother, should be taught moderation and mercy by an awful proof of his own frailty…
“We should be as indulgent to the infirmities of others, as we can be consistently with truth and righteousness: our brother’s infirmity may be his burden; and if we do not choose to help him (or cannot) to bear it, let us not reproach him because he is obliged to carry the load.”
