Matthew 18:17
Arabic 2016 (الكِتاب المُقَدَّس: التَّرْجَمَةُ العَرَبِيَّةُ المُبَسَّطَةُ)
فَإنْ رَفَضَ الاسْتِمَاعَ إلَيْهِمَا، أخبِرِ الكَنِيسَةَ. فَإنْ رَفَضَ الاسْتِمَاعَ إلَى الكَنِيسَةِ، حِينَئِذٍ عَلَيْكَ أنْ تُعَامِلَهُ كَمَا تُعَامِلُ عَابِدَ الأوْثَانِ وَجَامِعَ الضَّرَائِبِ.
What Does This Mean?
This verse is from Jesus talking about how to deal with someone who keeps doing wrong and won't listen even when others try to help them. He says if they still don’t change after the church talks to them, treat them like an outsider.
Explained for Children
Imagine you have a friend who keeps breaking your toys. You tell them not to do it again, then ask another friend to talk to them too. If they still break your toys even after that, maybe they're not ready to play nicely with others right now.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this Gospel in the first century for Jewish Christians. Jesus is giving instructions on how his followers should handle conflict within their community, which was culturally significant given the emphasis on communal harmony and obedience to religious authorities of that time.
Living It Out Today
Today, if someone at work keeps slacking off despite multiple warnings and even HR intervention, it might be time to consider they're not a good fit for the team. This doesn’t mean abandoning them but recognizing their actions impact the whole group's success.
Topics
conflict resolutionchurch disciplineforgivenesscommunityobediencespiritual growth
Related Verses
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is 'them' in Matthew 18:17?
'Them' refers to two or three witnesses who are asked to confront the individual about their wrongdoing, as per Jesus’ earlier instruction in verse 16.
What does it mean to treat someone like an outsider (heathen and publican)?
Treating them like an outsider means excluding them from community activities until they show repentance. This was a serious step meant to encourage the person to reconsider their actions and seek reconciliation.
Is this verse only for church members?
While it's particularly relevant in church settings, its principles can be applied more broadly in any group where there is a need for maintaining harmony and addressing persistent wrongdoings.
How often should one try to resolve issues before taking this final step?
The text doesn't specify the number of attempts but implies multiple tries including private conversations and then involving witnesses. Patience and repeated efforts are implied.