Correction Is Restoration, Not Ruin | 1 Corinthians 4:14-16

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Our text today is 1 Corinthians 4:14-16.

No one enjoys being corrected. But deep down, we all know this:

Sometimes the most loving thing someone can do is tell us the truth.

Paul leans into that reality here.

I do not write these things to make you ashamed, but to admonish you as my beloved children. For though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers. For I became your father in Christ Jesus through the gospel. I urge you, then, be imitators of me. — 1 Corinthians 4:14–16

The Corinthians may have felt attacked, but Paul wants them to know the truth: he’s not shaming them—he’s loving them.

Correction is restoration. Shame is destruction.

Shame pushes you down.
Correction pulls you back.

Shame says, “You’re done.”
Correction says, “You’re drifting—come home.”

Paul speaks like a spiritual father. Not a critic. Not an enemy. A father. And here’s the truth: We all need at least one person who loves us enough to tell us what we don’t want to hear.

Most of us are surrounded by “guides”—voices, content, encouragement. But guides speak to you. Fathers and mothers speak into you.

Guides edify. Fathers rectify.
Guides give information. Fathers give formation.

Paul corrects because he cares. He warns because he wants to keep them from drifting. He speaks truth because silence would cost them.

The people who love you most aren’t the ones who flatter you—they’re the ones who fight for your future.

Paul ends with a courageous invitation: “Be imitators of me.” Not because he’s perfect, but because he’s following Christ and wants them to follow faithfully.

Correction isn’t meant to crush you. It’s meant to realign you. Restore you. Strengthen you.

God corrects to restore, not to ruin.

DO THIS:

Identify one person who consistently tells you the truth. Thank them for loving you enough to correct you.

ASK THIS:

1. Why do I resist correction, even when I need it?
2. Who are the true spiritual fathers/mothers in my life?
3. What recent correction do I need to receive instead of resist?

PRAY THIS:

Father, thank You for loving me through correction. Help me receive truth as restoration, not shame. Surround me with people who speak honestly and help me follow You faithfully. Amen.

PLAY THIS:

“Gratitude”