For where two or three gather together in my name, there am I in the midst of them. Matthew 18:20 KJV

The bible teaches us to fellowship with others. Our sense of well being and even our credibility is strengthened when we gather together in groups, especially small groups. Together, we are strengthened. When we gather together, our friends can inform us, correct us, and receive valuable information from us while we support one another’s growth and understanding. 

In verses fifteen through twenty of Matthew’s gospel, Jesus teaches us how to deal with sin in the church. The Lord begins his instruction with these words from Matthew 18:15, “If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. WEB” The Lord continues to explain what to do if our brother fails to recognize his perceived error. Jesus teaches us to bring one or two others to address the issue.

The Lord Is With You

The reason for this is to establish the validity of the offense. It may be that our friend does not recognize the importance of the matter or simply does not want to acknowledge his sin. However, another possibility is that the accused is innocent of the offense. When we gather together to discuss the issue, the truth of the matter is more easily established. 

But beyond all of this, Jesus makes a promise. When we are gathered together as believers in Christ, Jesus is there with us. We are not alone with our thoughts, feelings and issues. We have the support, counsel, and comfort of the Lord who is present whenever two or more are gathered in his name. And so, when we are compelled by circumstance to confront sin head on, the Lord has taught us what to do and he promises to be there with us. 

Yesterday’s Devotional: Love the Lord Our God