Psalm 119:33-40 / Matthew 18:15-20

Much of Jesus’ earthly ministry was taken up with preparing his disciples to continue his work of preaching about the Realm of God’s Love (“the kingdom of heaven”). In Matthew 18:15-20, this week’s Gospel reading, Jesus offers instruction to the church about how to resolve hurts and conflicts when we sin against each other.

Jesus begins by saying, “If another member of the church sins against you…” (Matthew 18:15). Pause and consider what he means. What is sinning against one another? Is it the same as lying or abusing or gossiping about? Is it more? Use the Law of Love (Matthew 22:36-40) as a guide.

Is it possible “in the real world” (as we say) to go to someone who has sinned against you “and point out the fault when the two of you are alone” (Matthew 18:15)? What keeps us from such encounters? How does avoiding an uncomfortable confrontation damage the church?

The Presbyterian Church (USA), our denomination, has an extensive process for members who have been wronged or abused to “tell it to the church” (Matthew 18:17). Did you know this? You can find the process in The Book of Order by Googling “PCUSA Book of Order” and finding a downloadable link through a congregation or presbytery.