Matthew 18:15-20 – Conflict Resolution
If we have been offended or hurt by a fellow believer the first step to be taken is to visit him alone and tell him what he has done. He may have hurt you unintentionally; he may have an explanation for his behaviour; at any rate, this friendly, faithful, straightforward way of dealing is the most likely way to mend a broken relationship. For all you know, he might immediately say he was wrong and repent. But if he doesn’t, we are to take one or two companions and tell our brother of his sin in their presence. Maybe he will be ashamed and repent, but if not, we have witnesses that we did all we could to bring our brother to repent, and he deliberately refused. The final course is to refer the whole matter to the church, and if this does not persuade him to repent, he must be cast out of the church. This passage shows the great wisdom of Christ. Nothing does so much harm to the cause of the Gospel as the quarrels of Christians. Happy it would be for the Church if this teaching was more carefully studied and obeyed.
Christ intends that His Church have the power to discipline through excommunication those who are living a life of disobedience to Him. When church discipline is wisely exercised, it promotes a church’s health and well-being. A perfect church can never be found in this world, but purity should be the mark at which we aim.
Jesus holds out great encouragement to those who meet together in His name. We may often be disheartened by the small numbers that gather to worship, but no matter how few are there, Christ is there too. There is a warning here for all who neglect worship. They are turning their back on the society of the Lord of lords; they are missing the opportunity of meeting Christ Himself.
Questions
- What are the steps to follow if someone has sinned against us?
- What does Jesus promise those who meet together?
Prayer Points
- Pray for wisdom for the leaders in the church.
- Use prayer points from your congregation.
- Pray for family matters.