Proverbs 9

 ⁷ Whoever corrects a mocker invites insults; 
   whoever rebukes the wicked incurs abuse. 
⁸ Do not rebuke mockers or they will hate you; 
   rebuke the wise and they will love you. 
⁹ Instruct the wise and they will be wiser still; 
   teach the righteous and they will add to their learning.


This is a great reminder! Many Christians, myself included, forget that we can't try to correct non-Christians' ways of thinking by telling them that it is un-Christ-like. Our primary audience for Christian accountability ought to be those in fellowship around us. How much more receptive will someone be if they are already striving to live for Christ? When dealing with non-believers, it may be helpful to remember that Jesus often used parables and the prophets used metaphors to bring God's word to an ungodly people.