There will be conflict and hurt within the body of Christ. His church is composed of sinners and our selfish nature often tramples over our brothers. It is no surprise that Jesus gives a simple outline of dealing with sin between members of the body. Unfortunately, this passage is often ignored or misused.

There are two prerequisites before beginning the process. First the brother must have sinned against you. Annoyance or differing opinions are not grounds and usually point not to the other brother but show ourselves in need of repentance. Secondly, the individual you are about to call to repentance must be a brother or sister. It is understood that they have agreed to the standard of the gospel and have Jesus Christ as Lord and savior of their life. If they are not a believer, they principles are still valid, but the results may not be the same.

The two most ignored instructions in this passage are in verse 15. “…go [to] him in private.” Go to the individual, not an email send list, a coffee group, a blog, your best friend, your minister, etc… It is easier (and cowardly) to go to everyone and anyone except the brother who should be challenged. The passage also says to go to him in private. It is not a spectacle; it is a respectful approach to give the brother a chance to repent.

The next steps (verses 16-17) are an escalation. If the brother is unresponsive than more believers are brought in, not to judge or condemn, but to help. The atmosphere should not be one of “ganging up” on the individual, but a challenging tone of help and healing.

Finally, if the brother will not listen, “…let him be like an unbeliever and a tax collector to you.” Although these words indicate a separation, it does give carte blanche to disrespect, disregard or disparage a believer who does not repent. Culturally there is a need to have a winner or loser or a right or wrong decision at the end of a conflict. The culture of Christ is to love people. There can be no gloating by the individual who initiated the challenge. Always allow room for the brother to repent and return to the fellowship.

If the steps of Matthew 18 are followed with a gracious and humble heart, the Restoration Movement will see greater unity. Sin, not differing opinions or vendettas, will be the focus of challenges. Brother and sisters will be respected, even as they are challenged. Those who are to be treated as tax collectors and unbelievers will feel they have an opportunity to repent and return to the fold at some point. Matthew 18 works, if it is obeyed.