2026 Pentecost Devotions II
Saturday, September 5
Matthew 18:15-20
[Jesus said to the disciples:] 15 “If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If you are listened to, you have regained that one. 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If that person refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church, and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a gentile and a tax collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
“… 15 “If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. …”
Boy, wouldn’t it be great if the world worked in this way. When two people had an issue with one another, one went to the other to try to work it out. Many a difficulty both between the two and within society would be rectified.
Unfortunately, for many, such conduct is unknown. Instead of going to the person with whom they have issue, they seemingly go to everyone else. Whether it’s gossiping on the phone or trolling on social media, everyone seems to be engaged. Facebook posts, text loops, and email groups all get wrapped up in what is basically a private issue between two people.
Jesus’ words remind us that one-on-one is still the best and most effective way to address any issue between two people. Rather than engaging others and making public what was private, Jesus encourages direct contact. This not only keeps private what is private. It also shows respect for the other person and reflects the love of Christ toward that person. Jesus’ directive here is basically a reminder of the second great commandment: To love your neighbor as yourself. Love does no wrong to a neighbor.
Prayer: Lord of Love, you command us to love one another as You love us. Make me an instrument of Your love when I meet with another to resolve what stands between us. Amen.