Our scripture this morning is Matthew 18:20.
For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them.
The section heading for this passage in the New Living Translation is “Correcting another believer”. Other versions call it “Restoring a brother” and “Discipline and prayer”. Reading the complete lesson (Matthew 18:15-20) is necessary for us to fully understand what Jesus is saying here.
This particular verse is used to show Jesus’ promise of the Holy Spirit coming to be with us, and while that is completely true, there is more. He promised His presence when we are required to make difficult decisions, such as correcting another believer. We are not called to judge, but to react in love, wanting all to make the choice for salvation.
Going as two or three to speak with an errant member is done not to “gang up” on them, but in love, showing a community concern. Speaking for myself, I have found this the most difficult thing to do in ministry – pointing out the faults of others while knowing my own. Jesus used the example of a lost sheep (Matthew 18:12-14) immediately before this lesson to show us our responsibility to go after those who stray.
Gracious God, You have given us life and a duty to look after Your creation, which includes each other. Help us to watch in love, ready to be Your servants in the world. Amen.
