Matthew 18:15
“Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother.

Application:

Jesus addressed church discipline in Matthew 18:15-20. He clearly considered it a significant issue, as he provided principles for disciplining church members before the church officially came into existence. 

Though these verses represent the foundational text for guiding churches through the disciplinary process, there are several other relevant passages as well (e.g., 1 Cor 5:1-13; 2 Cor 2:5-8; Gal 6:1; 2 Thess 3:14-15; 1 Tim 5:19-20; Jas 5:19-20).

To be a member of a local church means to live under the authority of Jesus Christ in fellowship with and accountability to other believers. The church is called to honor God in all she does. Therefore, the purpose of church discipline is always to glorify God and lovingly restore wayward church members. Notice first that the matter involves “a brother”—a fellow believer. We’re not talking about non-Christians. This is a matter for the family of God.

Importantly, we’re not discussing rebuking a brother or sister for every offense. We all fall short, and Proverbs 19:11 reminds us that it’s virtuous to “overlook an offense.” The passages cited above clarify that Jesus is addressing flagrant sin reflected in persistent, unrepentant spiritual rebellion.

The ultimate aim of confrontation isn’t punishment, embarrassment, or harassment. The ultimate aim is to win him over—to come alongside a brother going in the wrong direction and help him turn back to God.

Reference: Tony Evans, The Tony Evans Bible Commentary (Nashville, TN: Holman Bible Publishers, 2019), 1175.

To God be the glory!

Our Lord Jesus Christ created everything! By Him, For Him!

“The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; The Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26

Disclaimer

When God inspires me, I write blogs. Consider this writing as a Bible study. Like the Bereans in Acts 17:11, search the Scriptures to determine whether what I write is so. Always consult with your church ministers about biblical matters. I am also not a professional writer, so some grammar or spelling errors may be present. I try my best to write as efficiently as possible. Your brother in Christ, Ricardo

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