If the motive is wrong, no matter how correct the external action may be, it is unacceptable with God. The most eloquent, articulate, and doctrinally correct preaching, is but so many misspent words when the attitude or motive is wrong. What may appear as a good and commendable action, is not in truth a good deed, unless the doer is willing for Christ to get all the glory for His effort. The saint is never to seek the approbation of his peers at the expense of God's glory. But Paul, the great defender of the faith, was exceedingly careful so as not to unduly offend his weaker brethren.
Error is to be undauntedly withstood and sometimes the obviating of error demands plain speech.
The words of rebuke may be sharper than a two-edged sword, and oft times need be, but this does not mean he who gives the reprimand should be tactless and unconcerned about how it will affect the erring brother. It was in a fellowship meeting at Antioch, that Paul rebuked Peter for his dissimulation. Paul's purpose in rebuking Peter was not to embarrass him, but to embolden him in his stand against circumcising Judaism. Paul's rebuke of Peter was not intended to alienate him, but to meliorate him, and Paul's motive, being pure in this matter, God honored his efforts. The wise pastor knows how to sternly rebuke his people without scolding them, and he knows how to use pulpit vinegar without causing his people to sour on him.