# “Though you may find it necessary to oppose his errors, view him as a kindred soul, with whom you are to be happy in Christ forever” by John Newton

- Link: https://tollelege.net/2019/08/28/though-you-may-find-it-necessary-to-oppose-his-errors-view-him-as-a-kindred-soul-with-whom-you-are-to-be-happy-in-christ-forever-by-john-newton/
- Published: 2019-08-28T12:00:54-05:00
- Author: tollelege

“As to your opponent, I wish, that, before you set pen to paper against him, and
during the whole time you are preparing your answer, you may commend him by earnest
prayer to the Lord’s teaching and blessing.

This practice will have a direct tendency to conciliate your heart to love and pity
him; and such a disposition will have a good influence upon every page you write.

If you account him a believer, though greatly mistaken in the subject of debate 
between you, the words of David to Joab, concerning Absalom, are very applicable:‘
_Deal gently with him for my sake_.’ (**2 Samuel 18:5**)

The Lord loves him and bears with him. Therefore you must not despise him, or treat
him harshly.

The Lord bears with you likewise, and expects that you should show tenderness to
others, from a sense of the much forgiveness you need yourself.

In a little while you will meet in heaven. He will then be dearer to you than the
nearest friend you have upon earth is to you now.

Anticipate that period in your thoughts. And though you may find it necessary to
oppose his errors, view him personally as a kindred soul, with whom you are to be
happy in Christ forever.”

–John Newton, [_The Works of John Newton_](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1848715110?tag=toletaupanre-20),
[_Volume 1_](https://www.amazon.com/dp/1848715110?tag=toletaupanre-20) (Carlisle,
PA: Banner of Truth, 2015), 1: 268-269.

More quotes from [John Newton](https://tollelege.net/category/john-newton/) · More
on [Gentleness](https://tollelege.net/category/gentleness/)