Matthew 18:15-18 Moreover if your brother shall trespass against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone: if he shall hear you… Observe the method Christ has laid down — I. THE TRESPASS SUPPOSED, whether accidental or designed. Whether it regards reputation, or property, or feelings, etc. Then, the direction given — II. SEEK A PRIVATE INTERVIEW. That he may explain, if possible. Better adapted for him to confess. More faithfully and affectionately admonished. III. IF THIS FAIL, TAKE ONE OR TWO MORE. Let them be unobjectionable, peaceable, prudent persons. These are to witness and aid by their counsel and influence. If this fail — IV. BRING IT TO THE CHURCH. DO SO for these reasons: 1. For the offender's sake. He may hear the Church. 2. For Christianity's sake. 3. For the world's sake, that they may see we are neither indifferent or malevolent. If he refuse to hear the Church, then he must — V. BE REMOVED FROM CHRISTIAN COMMUNION. This is the last act, and if this is rightly done, it is ratified in heaven (verse 18). Do not let us neglect this order. You object "He is not worthy of all this," etc.; " This is troublesome," etc. But it is your duty; Christ demands it. (J. Burns, LL. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: 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. |
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