Matthew 18:15–20 | Following Jesus Together
Relationships can become difficult.
Families, friendships, workplaces, and even churches experience misunderstanding, disappointment, and hurt. Jesus knows this reality. In Matthew 18:15–20, he teaches his followers what discipleship looks like when relationships become strained.
The context is important. Earlier in Matthew 18, Jesus teaches his disciples about humility. Then he tells them about a shepherd who goes looking for one wandering sheep, reminding them that it is not God’s will that even one should be lost.
Then Jesus says, “If another member of the church sins against you, go…”
That word-go– can be difficult.
When we are hurt, we may withdraw, become silent, tell others what happened, or simply walk away. Jesus points us in another direction: where it is wise and safe, move toward the person.
But we go with humility. We go remembering that we too live by grace. We go prepared not only to speak truth, but also to listen.
Why make that difficult journey?
Jesus says, “If the member listens to you, you have regained that one.”
Regained.
The goal is not winning an argument. The goal is restoration.
Jesus is teaching us something deeper than conflict management:
Jesus is not teaching us how to win against one another. He is teaching us how not to lose one another.
Reconciliation may take time. Sometimes healthy boundaries are necessary, and reconciliation never requires remaining in an abusive or unsafe situation. Yet wherever restoration is possible, Jesus calls us toward it.
And we do not enter that difficult space alone. Jesus promises:
“Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.”
So perhaps the first step is prayer:
Lord, give me humility to speak, grace to listen, and wisdom to know when I should go.
Then take one faithful step.
Reflection Question
Is there someone I have been talking about whom Jesus may be asking me to talk to, and what would one faithful step toward reconciliation look like?
Share Your Reflection
How is this Gospel speaking to your life? We invite you to share your reflection in the comments section below. Your experience or insight may also encourage someone else who is learning what it means to follow Jesus together.
