Matthew 18:15-20

Fighting in the Church – oh my!

Verses 19 and 20 are favorites of most Christians, particularly when we are praying together.  It is so inspiring to know that Jesus is with us as we pray.  However, we often forget the context for these verses:  Jesus’ very practical advice about how to handle conflicts and disagreements – that’s sin, folks – in the church.  Not how to handle it IF it happens, but WHEN it happens.  Jesus was very clear about the steps to take, and they didn’t include talking to others first about the brother or sister who has offended you, even if you wrap it in the trappings of a pious-sounding prayer request!

Why is this so hard for us to do?  Reconciliation with our Christian brothers and sisters should be our top priority.  But we let wrongs fester, don’t we, and we tell others to justify our ‘side’ so we will feel supported in our self-righteous anger. How could someone do something so hurtful to me?  I’m not ready to forgive – they don’t deserve it.

And yet, Jesus tells us to go to our brother first, and not wait until we ‘feel’ like it.  If our brother doesn’t listen, then and only then do we involve others.  And if that doesn’t bring about reconciliation, then we take it to the church.  Jesus is modeling true forgiveness – he is showing us the way. 

Yes it’s hard to do it Jesus’ way.  But if we follow these steps, our relationships will be restored.  And our churches will be places of hope and healing.  And the world will take notice that something different is going on here!

 1.       Has a fellow Christian offended you?  Don’t gossip about her – go to her and talk it out. 2.      Is a friend venting to you about another Christian’s sin?  Encourage him to go to that person first.

Lord, I claim that promise that you are with me when I join other Christians in prayer.  Help our church be a place where reconciliation is modeled after Matthew 18.