Sunday 07 September 2008

Background

Matthew was probably writing for early Christians who werealready part of worshipping communities - young churches in fact.In this passage, he is writing about times when Christians don'tget on happily with each other, and he records what Jesus said tohis disciples about arguments that spring up even among his ownfollowers.

First of all, don't gossip about the situation! Just go and talkprivately with someone who has hurt you. They may listen, and thenall will be well.

If that doesn't work then take others with you as witnesses.Eventually, there may have to be a more public parting of the ways.It is a process which may lead to people having to leave the Church- a hard result all round.

Jesus was giving considerable authority to his followers when theyacted carefully together. And he reassures them that together -even in small groups of two or three - they can do his will, and hewill be with them. Many Christians have been reassured by Jesus'words - "Where two or three are gathered in my name, I am thereamong them".

To Ponder

What do you think Jesus would say about thedisagreements within the Christian Church today?

Jesus says that he is with two or three when theygather in his name. What times can you think of when you havereally felt his presence in such groups?