What does Matthew 18:20 mean?

Matthew 18:20 is a verse that has often been quoted in various Christian contexts to emphasize the importance of community and the presence of Christ among believers. The verse reads: "For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them" (NIV). To fully understand the meaning of this verse, we must consider its context within the chapter, its theological implications, and its practical application for believers today.

Context within Matthew 18

Matthew 18 is a chapter that deals extensively with community life, relationships among believers, and the principles of the Kingdom of Heaven. The chapter begins with the disciples asking Jesus, "Who, then, is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven?" (Matthew 18:1, NIV). Jesus responds by teaching about humility, using a child as an example. He goes on to speak about the seriousness of causing others to sin and the importance of seeking out those who are lost, as illustrated in the Parable of the Lost Sheep.

The immediate context of Matthew 18:20 is a passage about dealing with sin in the church. Jesus provides a process for addressing a brother or sister who sins against you. He instructs that one should first confront the person privately. If the person does not listen, then take one or two others along to establish the matter by the testimony of two or three witnesses. If the person still refuses to listen, the matter should be taken to the church. If the person refuses to listen even to the church, they are to be treated as a pagan or a tax collector (Matthew 18:15-17, NIV).

In this context, Jesus emphasizes the importance of unity, agreement, and mutual support among believers. He assures them that their decisions, made in unity and in His name, have divine authority. This leads directly into verse 20, where Jesus states that He is present wherever two or three gather in His name.

Theological Implications

Theologically, Matthew 18:20 underscores several key principles:

1. The Presence of Christ: The promise of Jesus' presence among believers is a profound assurance. It means that Christ is not distant or detached but is intimately involved in the life of His followers. This presence is not limited to large gatherings or formal worship services but extends to even the smallest groups of believers who come together in His name.

2. The Authority of the Church: The context of church discipline and decision-making highlights the authority given to the church. When believers gather in Jesus' name to seek His will and make decisions, they do so with the confidence that Christ Himself is present and guiding them. This authority is not based on human wisdom but on the presence and guidance of Christ.

3. Unity and Agreement: The verse emphasizes the importance of unity among believers. When two or three gather in Jesus' name, they are united by their common faith and purpose. This unity is crucial for the effective functioning of the church and for the manifestation of Christ's presence among them.

Practical Application

Matthew 18:20 has several practical applications for believers today:

1. Small Group Gatherings: This verse is often cited to encourage small group gatherings, such as Bible studies, prayer meetings, and fellowship groups. It reassures believers that Christ is present even in the smallest gatherings, making these times of fellowship and worship significant and meaningful.

2. Church Discipline: In the context of church discipline, Matthew 18:20 provides assurance that Christ is present when believers gather to address issues of sin and reconciliation. This presence gives weight to their decisions and actions, encouraging them to seek God's will and act with humility and love.

3. Personal Relationships: The principle of Christ's presence extends to personal relationships among believers. When two or three believers come together to pray, seek God's guidance, or resolve conflicts, they can do so with the confidence that Christ is with them, guiding and supporting them.

4. Encouragement in Difficult Times: For believers facing persecution, isolation, or other challenges, Matthew 18:20 offers comfort and encouragement. It reminds them that they are never alone; Christ is always with them, especially when they gather with others in His name.

Biblical and Historical Perspectives

Throughout the Bible, the presence of God among His people is a recurring theme. In the Old Testament, God promised His presence to the Israelites, saying, "I will walk among you and be your God, and you will be my people" (Leviticus 26:12, NIV). In the New Testament, Jesus promises to be with His disciples always, "to the very end of the age" (Matthew 28:20, NIV).

Early Christian writers also emphasized the importance of community and the presence of Christ among believers. For example, Ignatius of Antioch, an early church father, wrote about the significance of unity and gathering in the name of Christ. In his letter to the Ephesians, he urged believers to come together in unity, saying, "Wherever the bishop appears, there let the people be; as wherever Jesus Christ is, there is the Catholic Church" (Ignatius of Antioch, Letter to the Ephesians, Chapter 4).

Conclusion

Matthew 18:20 is a powerful reminder of the presence of Christ among believers. It assures us that Jesus is with us whenever we gather in His name, whether in small groups or larger assemblies. This presence gives authority to our decisions, encourages unity and agreement, and provides comfort and strength in difficult times. By understanding and applying this verse in its context, we can experience the fullness of Christ's presence and live out our faith in meaningful and impactful ways.