Why is it important for Christians to distinguish error from people?

In the Christian faith, it's crucial to make a distinction between the sin that we oppose and the individuals who commit that sin. This distinction helps maintain the integrity of our witness and ensures that our battle remains spiritual rather than personal. Charles Spurgeon emphasizes that Christian warfare should be aimed at falsehood and error, not the people who are ensnared by them. We are called to confront sin with boldness but are also commanded to show compassion towards those who are lost, recognizing their need for redemption rather than condemning them outright.

Failure to make this distinction can lead to harsh treatment and division within the Church and can result in persecution towards those who may not yet understand the truth. This was historically noted in cases where true believers faced hostility not for their actions, but for their unyielding stance against heresy while forgetting the human cost involved. Therefore, by loving the sinner while hating the sin, Christians not only obey God's commands but also exemplify the grace that should characterize our interactions in a broken world.