September 2005 by E. Louise Williams
(Click here for downloadable artwork)

Reconciliation
Matthew 18:15–17

“Let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” —Matthew 18:17b

The Bible is filled with stories showing the great lengths to which God will go to win someone back. God seems relentless in pursuing those who have strayed. We remember, for example, Jesus’ parable of the shepherd who left behind ninety-nine sheep to look for the one who had gotten lost.

This is the backdrop for understanding Jesus’ instructions for dealing with a member of the church who has sinned. It is all for the purpose of bringing that one back into the fold. “Go and talk to the sinner,” Jesus says. “If that doesn’t bring them home, take someone else along to help you. And if that fails, involve the whole church.”

Far too often when someone in the church does something wrong, we talk to others about that person and what they have done. Instead of bringing reconciliation, we drive the wedge of separation even deeper.

Jesus’ words invite us away from being judgmental and harsh into the heart of God who does not want even one to be lost. Jesus’ words are an encouragement to woo the straying one back.

Is that true even of the harsh sounding final step? “If the member refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.” For “Gentile” and “tax collector,” read outcast and despised.

Remember how Jesus treated Gentiles and tax collectors. Jesus went to their homes. Jesus sat at table with them. Jesus was their friend.

This is pure grace, and it is there for us and for the whole world.

For reflection and discussion: How do we deal with sinners in our congregation? Who are the “Gentiles and tax collectors” in our world?

Prayer: Gracious God, help us who live in your amazing grace, to love as you do. Amen.