The Chicken Killer: Forgiveness and Restrictions

We have some family members who have a dog that I really like and sometimes they will bring her to our house. One time though when we thought she was in a secure area she got out and killed one of our free ranging chickens. She was scolded and seemed sorrowful

It wasn’t a big deal (except to that chicken) because we still had 17 other chickens. I forgave that dog (although I do call her “Chicken Killer”) and I still like her. But… I made a rule, whenever she was at our house she had to stay on a cable or leash. We haven’t lost another chicken since then and I'm sure if the chickens could thank me they would.

Sin and sinners are kind of like that dog. Yes we can forgive them, even forgive them 70 time 7, but they need some restrictions.

For instance the fellow who pilfers out of the church treasury. Yes we accept his repentance but he can no longer be involved in the church treasury… sorry… not sorry.

The guy involved in chronic, repetitive sexual sin. Forgiven? Yes but perhaps no more unrestricted internet access to view pornography.

I’m sure there are plenty of other examples but those should suffice.

If all I did was forgive the “Chicken Killer” every time she killed a chicken eventually I wouldn’t have to forgive her any more because I would be out of chickens and we could be at peace but that’s a high price for peace.

Open your ears and listen to this… If we don’t put restrictions on those who sin chronically and repetitively we are complicit and guilty for those sins and don’t think the Lord doesn’t know that.

Help the poor sinner to live a pure sin free life. You will be doing him… and yourself a big favor.