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Matthew 18:15
Verse
Context
A Brother Who Sins
14In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish. 15If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother, &c.--Probably our Lord had reference still to the late dispute, Who should be the greatest? After the rebuke--so gentle and captivating, yet so dignified and divine--under which they would doubtless be smarting, perhaps each would be saying, It was not I that began it, it was not I that threw out unworthy and irritating insinuations against my brethren. Be it so, says our Lord; but as such things will often arise, I will direct you how to proceed. First, Neither harbor a grudge against your offending brother, nor break forth upon him in presence of the unbelieving; but take him aside, show him his fault, and if he own and make reparation for it, you have done more service to him than even justice to yourself. Next, If this fail, take two or three to witness how just your complaint is, and how brotherly your spirit in dealing with him. Again, If this fail, bring him before the Church or congregation to which both belong. Lastly, If even this fail, regard him as no longer a brother Christian, but as one "without"--as the Jews did Gentiles and publicans.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And if he shall neglect to hear them,.... The one or two, in conjunction with the offended person that shall hear the ease, and admonish and reprove; if he takes no notice of what they say to him, but remains stiff and impenitent, tell it unto the church: which some understand, of the or "multitude", before whom it was lawful to reprove, after such private methods had been taken: others, the political magistrates, or sanhedrim; who took cognizance of cases between one person and other, either by themselves, or messengers; and gave admonitions and reproofs, as to parents, when they did not provide for their families (x), and to wives that were perverse, and provoked their husbands (y), &c. others, of the presbyters and governors of the Christian church; others, of the church itself, and so the Ethiopic version renders it, "the house of Christians"; to which it is objected, that as yet a Christian church was not formed: but what were the twelve apostles of the Lamb? They were the great congregation and church, in the midst of which Christ sung praise to his Father: and since the whole of this advice, and these excellent rules are given to them, and they are spoken of in the next verse, as having the power of binding and loosing, they may well be thought to be meant here; and that the design of Christ is, to instruct them how to behave, in case of offence to one another; that the reproof should be first private, and if it did not succeed, to be made before one or two more; and if that did not do, the whole body was to be acquainted with it; and which rules hold good, and are to be observed by all Christian men and churches, in all ages: though no doubt but allusion is made to the Jewish customs, in rebuking before the multitude, or carrying of a private case, after all other means used were ineffectual, to the sanhedrim. But if he neglect to hear the church: the advice they should give unto him, the reproof they should think proper for him, or the censure they should pass upon him, let him be unto thee as an heathen man, and a publican. This is not a form of excommunication to be used among Christians, nor was there ever any such form among the Jews; nor could Heathens or publicans, especially such publicans as were Gentiles, be excommunicated, when they never were of the Jewish church. "A religious person indeed, that becomes a collector of taxes, they first said, is to be driven from the society; but they afterwards said, all the time that he is a tax gatherer, they drive him from the society; but when he goes out of his office, lo! he is as a religious person (z).'' But one that never was of a religious society, could not be driven out of it. And besides, this is given, not as a rule to the church, but as advice to the offended person, how to behave towards the offender: after he has come under the cognizance, reproof, and censure of the church, he is to look upon him as the Jews did one that disregarded both private reproof by a man's self, and that which was in the presence of one or two more, , "a worthless friend", or neighbour; as a Gentile, with whom the Jews had neither religious nor civil conversation; and a "publican", or as Munster's Hebrew Gospel reads it, "a notorious sinner", as a publican was accounted: hence such are often joined together, and with whom the Jews might not eat, nor keep any friendly and familiar acquaintance: and so such that have been privately admonished and publicly rebuked, without success, their company is to be shunned, and intimate friendship with them to be avoided. (x) Maimon Hilehot Ishot, c. 12. sect. 14. (y) Ib. c. 14. sect. 9. & Moses Kotsensis Mitzvot Tora, pr. neg. 81. (z) T. Hieros. Demai, fol. 23. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:15-35 The believing community must not be fractured into rival parties and unreconciled relationships. Its members are to pursue reconciliation (18:15-20) and forgive willingly (18:21-35). At times, however, stern discipline may be necessary (18:17). 18:15-20 Restoration begins privately and should be made public only as a last resort. 18:15 If another believer sins, love requires us to go privately and point out the offense (Lev 19:17; Luke 17:3; Gal 6:1; 1 Tim 5:20; Titus 3:10).
Matthew 18:15
A Brother Who Sins
14In the same way, your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should perish. 15If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. 16But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Getting Ready for the End of All Things
By David Wilkerson38K43:19PSA 133:1HAG 2:5ZEC 10:1MAT 18:151PE 4:72PE 1:14REV 14:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of preparing for the end times by focusing on spiritual readiness rather than physical provisions. It highlights the need for forgiveness, love, and unity within the body of Christ to remove hindrances and welcome the outpouring of the Holy Spirit for a great harvest. The speaker encourages humility, prayer, and faith in God's promises, emphasizing the imminent glory and presence of Jesus Christ.
(Om Orientation) Action - Part 1
By George Verwer5.9K28:12OrientationMAT 6:33MAT 18:15JHN 17:20In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding and implementing the teachings of Jesus Christ. He criticizes the tendency to overlook or rationalize these teachings and instead focus on secondary matters and arguments. The speaker highlights the orderly and purposeful life of Jesus, emphasizing the need for strategic action in our Christian walk. He emphasizes the importance of unity among believers, expressing disappointment in the lack of unity he has observed in his travels. The speaker also discusses the need to address conflicts and disunity in a biblical manner, emphasizing the importance of walking in the light and seeking resolution.
Called to Be Accountable
By Andy Stanley4.9K41:49AccountabilityPRO 27:17MAT 18:15LUK 17:3GAL 6:1JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of accountability in the Christian life. He argues that God does not expect us to struggle alone and that we all face the same temptations. The speaker shares personal examples of how he has sought accountability in his own life, including having multiple accountability partners. He also references a passage from Luke 17 that instructs believers to rebuke and forgive one another. The speaker suggests that the lack of accountability in society contributes to family breakdown and encourages listeners to embrace accountability in their own lives.
Garland, Texas - Forgiveness and Confession
By J. Edwin Orr3.8K1:04:50MAT 18:15JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of confession and repentance in maintaining fellowship with God and others. It highlights the need for sincere confession of faults to receive prayer and deliverance, focusing on the biblical principles of seeking forgiveness and reconciliation. The speaker shares personal anecdotes and biblical teachings to illustrate the power of confession, repentance, and seeking forgiveness for restoration and revival.
Authority in Praying
By J. Glyn Owen3.6K50:56AuthorityMAT 6:33MAT 18:15MAT 18:18In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the concept of binding and loosening as mentioned in the Bible. He explains that when Christians face moral issues or conflicts, they should strive for reconciliation and peace. The speaker emphasizes the importance of prayer and engaging in spiritual warfare in a society filled with sin. He also highlights the need for a deeper dimension of faith and a stronger Christian witness in the world.
K-046 True Fellowship
By Art Katz2.6K1:23:05FellowshipMAT 18:15ACT 2:44HEB 3:13In this sermon, the speaker begins by describing their nervousness before delivering the message. They pray and feel led to speak about the deceitfulness of sin and the importance of exhorting one another daily. The speaker emphasizes the need for believers to be witnesses of God's glory and attributes in their relationships with others. They also highlight the radical generosity and abandonment displayed by the early church and how it led to great grace being upon them. The speaker reflects on their own transformation from a self-willed individual to a follower of Christ.
Beyond Forgiveness
By Don Baker2.2K1:23:43ForgivenessMAT 18:151TI 5:20In this sermon, the speaker recounts a moment when he called a man named Greg to the pulpit in front of the congregation. It is revealed that Greg had fallen in battle and was in need of restoration and accountability. The speaker acknowledges his own failure to maintain constant contact with Greg during his restoration period. However, a group of five men stepped in to provide the support and fellowship that Greg needed. The sermon raises questions about when and how discipline should be applied and emphasizes the importance of offering second chances and support to those who have fallen.
Building the Home and the Church
By Zac Poonen2.1K1:17:06Home1SA 7:161SA 8:3MAT 18:15MAT 18:191TI 3:4HEB 10:25In this sermon, the speaker discusses the current state of religious fundamentalism and persecution in the country. He shares personal details about his own life, including his marriage to a medical doctor who has dedicated her life to helping the poor. The speaker expresses gratitude for the teachings of the gospel, which have positively impacted his family and local church. He then references the story of Samuel in the Bible to highlight the importance of balancing ministry and family, emphasizing the need for husbands to prioritize their love for Jesus above all else. The speaker concludes by emphasizing the importance of unity within the church and the need for individuals to die to themselves in order to have harmonious relationships.
Anchoring Your Family in Christ for the Next One Hundred Years
By Steve Farrar1.8K1:00:21FamilyMAT 18:15In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of understanding the times we live in as leaders in the church and in our families. He uses the example of the sons of Issaacar who had discernment about their times and knew what Israel should do. The speaker also highlights the challenges of our current times, where truth is no longer considered essential. He encourages leaders to navigate through the fog of moral confusion by setting a strong example of following Christ and being committed to their families.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
(Matthew) ch.6:1-6:15
By Zac Poonen1.5K55:12MAT 6:1MAT 18:15MAT 18:21MAT 18:34MAT 26:44In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having the right motives when serving God. He warns against seeking recognition and praise from others, whether it be through giving testimony, giving money, or engaging in Christian activities like singing. The speaker refers to Matthew 6:1, where Jesus cautions against practicing righteousness to be noticed by men, as it can result in losing our reward from God. The sermon encourages believers to constantly examine their motives and repent when they realize they have been seeking honor from others, instead of seeking to glorify God.
The the Ministry of the Saints—dying to Self
By Aaron Hurst1.5K1:26:46Death To SelfISA 35:8MAT 18:15ACT 20:35In this sermon, Brother Denny begins by expressing his desire for the listeners' lives to be blessed and changed by the message. He emphasizes that the sermon is not copyrighted and encourages the audience to share it freely. The sermon focuses on the topic of judgment and how the church should function in areas of grace and liberty. Brother Denny references the book of Romans and highlights the importance of not judging one another, but rather focusing on not causing others to stumble. The sermon concludes with a reflection on personal struggles and the need to lay down one's rights and avoid speaking negatively about others.
Bitterness
By Harold E. Schmul1.5K57:42BitternessDEU 29:18DEU 32:32MAT 18:15ACT 8:23ROM 12:18EPH 4:31HEB 12:14In this sermon, the preacher begins by expressing his dissatisfaction with a fellow believer whom he considers a compromiser and a danger to their movement. He then discusses the destructive consequences of bitterness in a person's soul, leading to foolish decisions and ultimately backsliding. The preacher emphasizes that bitterness can manifest in various areas of life, causing rivalries and conflicts at every level of society. He concludes by recounting the story of Saul's jealousy towards David, highlighting the negative consequences of envy and rage.
Anabaptist History (Day 13) the Birth of the Hutterites-Part 1
By Dean Taylor1.4K1:24:18PRO 4:7MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 1:101CO 13:4GAL 6:2HEB 13:17JAS 1:191PE 4:12This sermon delves into the history of the Hutterites, tracing their origins from the Moravian Anabaptists and the zeal that characterized their faith. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the context and spirit behind historical events and scriptures, cautioning against misinterpretation from isolated quotes or verses. The narrative includes conflicts over beliefs within the community, showcasing the challenges faced by early leaders like Wilhelm Rublin. Additionally, a poignant story is shared about a leader returning to find his community vanished, highlighting the sacrifices and struggles endured by the Hutterites as depicted in the Chronicles and Martyr's Mirror.
Anabaptist History (Day 17) the Church Splits of Holland - Lessons for Today
By Dean Taylor1.3K1:28:28MAT 18:15MRK 3:25ACT 15:39EPH 4:3COL 3:13This sermon reflects on the historical splits within the Dutch Mennonite church, emphasizing the importance of unity and resolving differences among believers. It highlights the consequences of unresolved conflicts within the church and the need to address them before they escalate. The sermon also underscores the significance of maintaining a community of believers united in the kingdom of God, encouraging self-reflection and humility in dealing with disagreements.
Reconciliation
By Harold Vaughan1.3K46:37ReconciliationMAT 5:23MAT 18:15In this sermon, the speaker shares stories of individuals who have sought forgiveness and reconciliation with others. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear conscience and not allowing guilt to cloud one's thinking. The speaker also encourages the audience to be open and honest with their small circle of friends, as hiding one's true self can hinder personal growth. He concludes by offering practical guidelines for resolving conflicts and seeking to put things right when relationships have gone wrong.
Matthew 15:1
By William MacDonald1.2K38:23PhariseesISA 49:4ISA 55:10MAT 18:152CO 2:12In this sermon, the preacher begins by discussing various lures and promises that are often presented to people in the name of spirituality and fulfillment. He then refers to Isaiah 49:4, where the prophet expresses feelings of discouragement and a sense of laboring in vain. The preacher shares a personal experience of going through a difficult time and receiving a letter from a Christian sister that brought comfort and relief. The sermon also touches on the importance of following God's way, including resolving conflicts by directly addressing the person involved. The preacher concludes by referencing Luke 5:28 and highlighting the unexpected blessings that come with making the decision to trust Christ and commit one's life to Him.
The Fine Art of Getting Along
By William MacDonald1.2K47:13Long SufferingPRO 18:17MAT 18:15JHN 21:22ROM 12:1GAL 6:1EPH 4:29JAS 1:19In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of involving everyone in conversations and drawing them out from the sidelines. He uses the example of Jesus always having time for children and ministering to them. The speaker also discusses the importance of being a good listener and learning from others. He shares his frustration with people who talk about trivial matters instead of focusing on spiritual help. The sermon concludes with the reminder to keep our focus on following Jesus and not getting caught up in judging others or minding their business.
Love Reconciles
By Elizabeth Alliman1.2K33:27LovePRO 10:19MAT 5:23MAT 18:15ROM 12:181CO 12:25EPH 4:32COL 3:13In this sermon, the speaker reflects on the importance of reconciliation and unity within the body of Christ. They emphasize the need for believers to walk and work together, spreading the news that God is present among them. The speaker acknowledges that while the Bible calls for loving relationships and compassionate behavior, this is not always seen in the church. They share personal experiences of pain and tension within the church, highlighting the significance of forgiveness and the promise of a peaceful and encouraging community when forgiveness is practiced.
Our Father
By Erlo Stegen1.1K1:15:29PrayerISA 45:22MAT 11:28MAT 18:15MAT 19:12MAT 26:75ACT 4:121JN 3:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the challenges and responsibilities of being a wife and mother. He describes the exhaustion and difficulties of caring for children, especially when they are sick or crying throughout the night. The preacher then shares a personal story of attending a church service where the minister was absent, and a young man with poor English skills delivered the message. Despite his initial doubts, the preacher is deeply moved by the man's message of salvation through simply looking to Jesus. He compares this experience to birds feasting on worms behind a plow, rejoicing in the newfound knowledge of salvation.
Be Filled With the Holy Spirit - 4
By Zacharias Tanee Fomum9751:20:21Holy SpiritMAT 4:8MAT 6:33MAT 18:15LUK 4:5ROM 12:31CO 6:19JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of seeking opportunities and working diligently. They encourage the audience to express their thoughts and ideas without fear of shocking others. The speaker also emphasizes the need to do good and make a positive impact in the world. They highlight the importance of spreading the word of God and becoming like Christ through healing and sharing the message of their group.
Ict Devotions 22 March 1996
By George Verwer94249:28DevotionsMAT 18:15In this sermon transcript, the speaker reflects on the challenges and differences faced in the present day compared to the past. They express gratitude for the vision and events organized by the church, praising the generosity and specific works done overseas. The speaker also mentions the goal of increasing the number of missionaries in the field. The sermon transcript concludes with expressions of gratitude for the warm welcome, uplifting fellowship, and the positive response received during a recent trip to Korea.
Book of Acts Series - Part 41 | Accusations
By Jim Cymbala87538:38Book Of ActsMAT 7:1MAT 12:36MAT 18:15ACT 4:201CO 13:1JAS 1:26JAS 3:2In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of Jesus Christ with others. He highlights the disciples' firsthand experiences of seeing Jesus after His resurrection, witnessing miracles, and hearing His teachings. The speaker compares the disciples' excitement to that of grandparents showing off pictures of their grandchildren, emphasizing the natural urge to share something amazing. He concludes with a prayer for love, unity, and encouragement among believers, acknowledging God's mercy and patience with His followers. The sermon references the story of Paul being protected by the Roman commander and sent to Governor Felix in Caesarea, highlighting the need to take action to ensure Paul's safety.
Living in the Light
By Erlo Stegen8451:24:52SinPSA 32:3PRO 28:13MAT 18:15In this sermon, Nathan tells a story to David about a rich man who unjustly takes and slaughters a poor man's only lamb. David becomes angry and declares that the rich man deserves to die. However, Nathan reveals that David himself is the rich man in the story, as he had sinned by taking another man's wife and having him killed. The sermon emphasizes the importance of confessing and forsaking one's sins, rather than hiding them, as God sees all and will not bless those who continue in sin. It also highlights the consequences of remaining silent about one's sins and the need for repentance.
Paul's Disagreements
By Steve Gallagher65954:51PRO 15:1MAT 18:15ACT 15:2ACT 15:39GAL 2:11EPH 4:2COL 3:13JAS 4:6This sermon delves into the life of Paul, focusing on the conflicts and disagreements he faced within the early church. It highlights the importance of meekness, graciousness, and humility in handling disagreements, using examples from Paul's interactions with Judaizers, Peter, and Barnabas. The sermon emphasizes the need to prioritize the spirit we are in over the issues we argue about, and the significance of being willing to admit when we are wrong and seek forgiveness.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Moreover, if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother, &c.--Probably our Lord had reference still to the late dispute, Who should be the greatest? After the rebuke--so gentle and captivating, yet so dignified and divine--under which they would doubtless be smarting, perhaps each would be saying, It was not I that began it, it was not I that threw out unworthy and irritating insinuations against my brethren. Be it so, says our Lord; but as such things will often arise, I will direct you how to proceed. First, Neither harbor a grudge against your offending brother, nor break forth upon him in presence of the unbelieving; but take him aside, show him his fault, and if he own and make reparation for it, you have done more service to him than even justice to yourself. Next, If this fail, take two or three to witness how just your complaint is, and how brotherly your spirit in dealing with him. Again, If this fail, bring him before the Church or congregation to which both belong. Lastly, If even this fail, regard him as no longer a brother Christian, but as one "without"--as the Jews did Gentiles and publicans.
John Gill Bible Commentary
And if he shall neglect to hear them,.... The one or two, in conjunction with the offended person that shall hear the ease, and admonish and reprove; if he takes no notice of what they say to him, but remains stiff and impenitent, tell it unto the church: which some understand, of the or "multitude", before whom it was lawful to reprove, after such private methods had been taken: others, the political magistrates, or sanhedrim; who took cognizance of cases between one person and other, either by themselves, or messengers; and gave admonitions and reproofs, as to parents, when they did not provide for their families (x), and to wives that were perverse, and provoked their husbands (y), &c. others, of the presbyters and governors of the Christian church; others, of the church itself, and so the Ethiopic version renders it, "the house of Christians"; to which it is objected, that as yet a Christian church was not formed: but what were the twelve apostles of the Lamb? They were the great congregation and church, in the midst of which Christ sung praise to his Father: and since the whole of this advice, and these excellent rules are given to them, and they are spoken of in the next verse, as having the power of binding and loosing, they may well be thought to be meant here; and that the design of Christ is, to instruct them how to behave, in case of offence to one another; that the reproof should be first private, and if it did not succeed, to be made before one or two more; and if that did not do, the whole body was to be acquainted with it; and which rules hold good, and are to be observed by all Christian men and churches, in all ages: though no doubt but allusion is made to the Jewish customs, in rebuking before the multitude, or carrying of a private case, after all other means used were ineffectual, to the sanhedrim. But if he neglect to hear the church: the advice they should give unto him, the reproof they should think proper for him, or the censure they should pass upon him, let him be unto thee as an heathen man, and a publican. This is not a form of excommunication to be used among Christians, nor was there ever any such form among the Jews; nor could Heathens or publicans, especially such publicans as were Gentiles, be excommunicated, when they never were of the Jewish church. "A religious person indeed, that becomes a collector of taxes, they first said, is to be driven from the society; but they afterwards said, all the time that he is a tax gatherer, they drive him from the society; but when he goes out of his office, lo! he is as a religious person (z).'' But one that never was of a religious society, could not be driven out of it. And besides, this is given, not as a rule to the church, but as advice to the offended person, how to behave towards the offender: after he has come under the cognizance, reproof, and censure of the church, he is to look upon him as the Jews did one that disregarded both private reproof by a man's self, and that which was in the presence of one or two more, , "a worthless friend", or neighbour; as a Gentile, with whom the Jews had neither religious nor civil conversation; and a "publican", or as Munster's Hebrew Gospel reads it, "a notorious sinner", as a publican was accounted: hence such are often joined together, and with whom the Jews might not eat, nor keep any friendly and familiar acquaintance: and so such that have been privately admonished and publicly rebuked, without success, their company is to be shunned, and intimate friendship with them to be avoided. (x) Maimon Hilehot Ishot, c. 12. sect. 14. (y) Ib. c. 14. sect. 9. & Moses Kotsensis Mitzvot Tora, pr. neg. 81. (z) T. Hieros. Demai, fol. 23. 1.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
18:15-35 The believing community must not be fractured into rival parties and unreconciled relationships. Its members are to pursue reconciliation (18:15-20) and forgive willingly (18:21-35). At times, however, stern discipline may be necessary (18:17). 18:15-20 Restoration begins privately and should be made public only as a last resort. 18:15 If another believer sins, love requires us to go privately and point out the offense (Lev 19:17; Luke 17:3; Gal 6:1; 1 Tim 5:20; Titus 3:10).