The Life and Ministry of Jesus
But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more, that ‘by the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.’ And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector. Matthew 18:16–17
What started as a private problem between two people is now out in the open for the whole church to see. Church discipline is a neglected ministry these days, yet it is taught here and in the epistles. Just as children in the home need discipline, so God’s children in the church need discipline. If by the time the matter comes to the whole church, the offender has not yet changed his mind and repented, then he must be disciplined. He cannot be treated as a spiritual brother, for he has forfeited that position. He can only be treated as one outside the church, not hated, but not held in close fellowship. 1
Personal Encouragement
Obedience becomes a pattern based upon your daily responses to the Holy Spirit’s promptings. Disobedience becomes a pattern based upon your daily rejections to the Holy Spirit’s promptings. Evaluate yourself. When the next storm comes, how will you respond?
Remind them to be subject to rulers and authorities, to obey, to be ready for every good work, to speak evil of no one, to be peaceable, gentle, showing all humility to all men. Titus 3:1–2
To hear His Word and to respond with obedience, blesses everyone.
A Prayer
Lord, thank You for leading Your church through Your appointed leaders.
1. Wiersbe, W. W. (1996). The Bible exposition commentary. Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
