Hmm... interesting. It reminds me of one article "Four Types of Backsliders". And there at the end is a similar statement that our hearts must be open to welcome them, when they come back.
Here is an excerpt:
"The Right Attitude Towards Lost Younger Sons
The father of the prodigal son did not go looking for his son when he was lost. He allowed his son to reap the consequences of his rebellion. And when his son came to an end of himself, he came home on his own. He was not carried home on anyone's shoulder, like the lost sheep. He came back when he was totally sick and tired of himself. God's love for such backsliders is shown in His not going after them, but allowing them to reap what they have sown.
Many believers however lack this wisdom and seek to carry these rebellious sons on their shoulders in to the church. Thus they ruin them. On the other hand, these believers don't do much for the lost sheep. Thus because they lack discernment, they console those who should be rebuked, and rebuke those who should be consoled.
Feeding rebellious sons of God will only ensure that they never return to God. Such acts are not acts of compassion but acts of folly. Such foolish actions make these lost sons stay out in the far country even longer - and in some cases forever.
When the prodigal son returned, the father made him sit at his right hand. He didn't place his son on probation or make him live in the servant's quarters - because his son had come back in brokenness and repentance - on his own, without anyone having to persuade him.
When rebellious sons return to the church in true brokenness and repentance, our hearts must be wide open to welcome them. Here is where we see the difference in attitude between those who are like God and those who are like the Pharisees. It will certainly take time for confidence to be restored in such a prodigal son who was once rebellious. But if he has repented, he must be accepted immediately, warmly, and wholeheartedly, even if he is not given any ministry in the church for many years."
See more: https://www.cfcindia.com/article/four-types-of-backsliders
Yet I have a question: what does it mean to "feed a rebellious sons of God"? And what should be one's approach toward brothers or sisters who have left God and have turned to occultism or other things of the devil, rebellion etc. Should the Christian stop every communication / financial support for that person (for example if it is a child living in his parents home)? What do you do during the time they remain prodigals and enemies of God?
