The wicked preacher knew well that he had two church members who were living a sinful life. He did not rebuke nor counsel them but rather tolerated them. He told the congregation to understand the sinners situation and to be silent about it. For many Sundays he preached about “love covers a multitude of sin”. He used the Bible verse:
“1 Peter 4:7-9
8 And above all things have fervent love for one another, for “love will cover a multitude of sins.” NKJV
Love covers but does not hide. Love is the covering while sin is being dealt with. Love is the closed door while counsel is being given. It is as the curtain in the surgical room of a hospital that keeps the patient, the surgeon and nurses covered from the view of the public. This is the way the Lord Jesus deals with our sins. He privately rebukes and counsels us .