WHO'S OVERTAKING WHO?
(Galatians 6:1)
Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.
One of the keys to fulfilling this passage is properly identifying someone who is overtaken in a fault. Many are teaching today that ANYONE who is constantly sinning is overtaken in a fault. This is QUITE FAR FROM THE TRUTH. Please be aware that everybody who sins is not overtaken in a fault. The word "overtaken" refers to being taken by surprise. The word "fault" refers to a side-slip or unintentional error. Someone who loves what they're doing is not overtaken by the fault, but rather embraces, facilitates and lusts after it. In other words, that person "overtook" the sin, chased it down and had his/her way with the act.
Be careful that you don't misidentify individuals in this area. It could end up costing you your own well-being in Christ. When you find someone overtaken in a fault, we can help bear the person's burdens through prayer and instruction (see "The Sin of Silence"). Sometimes it will be with prayer. Other times teaching will be included. He or she that does nothing (or joins in the broadcasting of the fault) is not providing a covering, but is out of order.
NOTE: He who invites sin over for tea and cookies is not overtaken by it.
