God’s Power in the Process

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is on the record for speaking the following words: 

“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭18:20‬ ‭ESV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Due to many other texts in the Bible, we know that God’s ability to be with us is not hindered by a crowded stadium or an empty room. He’s able to be just as present whether there’s more or less than 2-3 people gathered.

So, in this case specifically, what did Jesus mean?

When we look at the surrounding context, Jesus is actually explaining to His disciples how to correct a believer who has sinned against them. He encourages them to:

– First, go talk to the person alone.
– Second, if they don’t seem to listen the first time, bring one or two others along.
– Third, if they still don’t listen, bring the issue before the church.
– Fourth, if they still refuse to heed the wisdom and counsel of the church, treat them like you would an unbeliever.

So when Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them,” He’s reminding them that, as they navigate church-discipline situations with humility, grace, and love, He will be with them in the process. 

Throughout God’s Word, we’re given instructions for handling various situations—whether it’s money, relationships, sin, health issues, etc. And even when things don’t appear to be black or white, we can listen to the Holy Spirit and look to the leaders He’s appointed.

Jesus knew that conflicts and issues would inevitably arise, so He taught His disciples to ask for whatever they needed (see verse 19), and promised to be with them on the journey.