Restoration is the Goal
Matthew 18:12-20 reveals God’s problem resolution plan, The focus must be … First, an attitude of seeking restoration to fellowship—“If a man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray,
does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go in search of the one that went astray?” (v. 12) Jesus gave up the glory of heaven and came to save us. His attitude was restoration. Following His example, we are called to seek reconciliation and restoration. Second, an action of attempting resolution of offense—“If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault, between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained your brother.” (v. 15) If a Christian is wronged by another believer, he should not complain about it to others. He should go to the offender privately, state the problem in a kind manner, and let him see his offense. Sadly, these rules are neglected by most Christians, and the ministry of the church is seriously affected by bitterness. What is the process we have in these verses? (a) Go privately, v. 15. If he listens, restoration will occur; if he refuses, (b) go again with witness(es), v. 16. If he still won’t resolve the conflict, (c) bring the matter to the church, v. 17. At this point, it is a church problem, affecting the ministry. And if he refuses to even listen to the church, (d) treat him as an unbeliever, v. 18. This means removing him (or her) from church membership. It means relating to him as one who needs to be converted. Remove him as a negative influence on the fellowship of the church. Third, an appropriation of the authority of the church—“Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” (v. 18) The church’s authority is not to determine these things, but to declare the judgment of heaven that has already occurred based on the principles of God’s Word.
Sin cera, Erik
Erik O. Garthe is Associate Pastor at Canton Baptist Church in Baltimore, Maryland.