Where Two or Three Are Gathered

“For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” —Matthew 18:20

Main Point: In Matthew 18:20, Jesus was not simply talking about prayer or small gatherings but about biblical accountability. He was teaching how to confront fellow Christians caught in sin in a loving and biblical way.

Step One: Address the Issue

“If your brother or sister sins, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over.” —Matthew 18:15

“Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted. Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” —Galatians 6:1-2

Step Two:

One or Two Others

“But if they will not listen, take one or two others along, so that ‘every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.’” —Matthew 18:16

“One witness is not enough to convict anyone accused of any crime or offense they may have committed. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.” —Deuteronomy 19:15

Step Three: Bring It to Church

“If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.” —Matthew 18:17

Step Four: Set Healthy

“What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. ‘Expel the wicked person from among you.’” —1 Corinthians 5:12-13

Step Five:

God with the Outcome

“Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” —Matthew 18:18

“Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” —Matthew 18:19-20

Takeaway: Jesus is with us when we seek restoration and wholeness by confronting sin wisely and lovingly.

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Discussion Questions

1. Why do you think Jesus emphasizes confronting sin privately first (Matthew 18:15)? How does this reflect His character?

2. Why is it important to involve one or two others if private confrontation doesn’t work (Matthew 18:16)? How can this step help prevent gossip or unnecessary conflict?

3. What are some examples of healthy boundaries we might need to set when someone refuses correction (1 Corinthians 5:12-13)?

4. Why is accountability important in the church, and how can we practice it in a way that honors God?

Table Discussion Question: Have you ever been confronted about something in your life? How did you respond, and what did you learn from it?