22/03/2026
TELL ME WHERE IT HURTS
(Culture of Truth Sermon Series)
Speaker: Ptr. Alfred Atega
// In social media, we often carefully choose what to share, wanting to present ourselves in the best light. //
// Just like on what we wanted to say or whn we see something negative or hurtful from others, we tend to hold back, afraid of how they might perceive us or get upset, especially when it involves someone close to us
// Let's face it, not all of us are confrontational. //
.. But the question is, have we ever stopped to ask ourselves, is our silence really an act/expression of love? As we are avoiding a conflict out of fear of hurting someone?
* Proverbs 27:5 "Open rebuke is better than hidden love."
Hidden Love
- It is like ignoring wrong actions because we're afraid of what might happen if we speak up. We hesitate to confront as they may get mad or malain.
- And that is where "chismis" starts to form. As we cannot confront the person, we talk about the issue others instead of talking it out to the person.
- We all know that "Chismis" spreads like a wild fire. the story will get to you maybe "kulangan" or "manobra". It's either of the two.
- Gossip that can quickly go out of control. This often leads to misunderstanding and chaos, rather than resolution.
* Proverbs 10:10 “Whoever winks maliciously causes grief, and a chattering fool comes to ruin.”
Open Rebuke
- Open rebuke doesn't mean embarrassing someone or attacking their character.
- But is is a confrontation that is direct but private.
* Matthew 18:15 ““If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.”
- A confrontation is trully painful to receive. It can hurt, but the good thing in it, but when it aligns with God’s Word, it has the power to do good.
* Hebrews 4:12 “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.”
* Proverbs 27:6 "“Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses.”
- A confrontation rooted in God's word can indeed be painful, but it is ultimately for our own good. It may wound us temporarily, yet in it, we find the truth that can lead to growth and understanding.
- Though the truth can hurt, the eventual gain and healing are worth the initial discomfort.
How do we deliver a Godly rebuke?
1. Check your motives.
* Galatians 6:1 “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
- This urges us to restore gently, being cautious of our intentions.
- Are we seeking to shame or genuinely to help?
2. Choose privacy over gossip or public shame.
- An open rebuke should be focused and respectful, engaging privately rather than posting the issue on social media, "magpa dungog2" or in a crowd.
3. Our rebuke should have the perfect/right balance or "timpla"
- Just like brewing a coffee, the first thing we noticed about it is its aroma.
- And by that, when confronting a person, a balanced approach is the key. Start with a positive fragrance, a kind note, acknowledging something good about the person. (Compliment him/her, or say any positive things t the person)
- Then, gently share your concern, ensuring they truly understand your heart. Avoid starting with aggression, which only creates shame and defensiveness to the person.
- And lastly, end with a sweet advice/encouraging words, guidance, or a call to action.
4. We must understand that we are God's messenger.
- Remember, we are God's messengers. Our role is to bring His truth with love, not judgment.
- Yes, confronting can cause pain, but just like a mao guiding a lost traveler back to the right path.
// You know, it is easy to rebuke someone. But what if you are on the receiving end? How do you react?
LOWER YOUR PRIDE.
* Proverbs 12:1 reminds us, "Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid."
- Be open to correction. Resist the urge to retaliate because that's the reality especially when we don't like what they said and what's worse, is that, when you don't like that person who confronted you
- Despite it, keep your heart and mind receptive, understanding that even in the uncomfortable truths, these are our opportunities for growth.
- Though we may not like the person who delivered it and the message might hurt, let’s remember it’s meant for our good. we should not forsake the message of the confrontation.
Conc:
// This sermon calls us to something deeper than comfort, it calls us to love with courage. //
//Real love is not hidden or silent when something is wrong, and it is not harsh when speaking the truth.
// But it chooses honesty, even when it’s uncomfortable, because it desires growth, healing, and restoration.//
//We must learn to confront with grace and also receive correction with humility. //
// Because sometimes, love will hurt, but it is a pain that leads to healing. //
// So let us be the people who speak the truth in love
and are willing to grow when truth is spoken to us.//
So, Tell me where it hurts