How does Titus 3:11 connect with Matthew 18:15-17 on church discipline? Focus Text “Titus 3:10-11: ‘Reject a divisive man after a first and second admonition, 11 knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned.’” Shared Goal: Restoration and Purity • Both passages aim first at reclaiming the offender, then at preserving the holiness and unity of Christ’s church. • Holiness matters because the church is “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Peter 2:9). • Unity matters because Christ prayed “that they may all be one” (John 17:21). Side-by-Side Process 1. Private confrontation (“show him his fault between you and him alone”). 2. Small-group confirmation (“take one or two others”). 3. Congregational involvement (“tell it to the church”). 4. Separation (“treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector”). 1. First admonition. 2. Second admonition. 3. Rejection. Connection • Paul’s two admonitions mirror Jesus’ first two steps: individual appeal, then corroborated appeal. • The “tell it to the church” step is assumed in Titus because Titus is an apostolic delegate, speaking on behalf of the gathered body. • The final action—“reject” in Titus, “treat as pagan” in Matthew—is the same relational distancing that marks the person as outside fellowship. Why Two Warnings? • Deuteronomy 19:15 sets the biblical precedent of two or three witnesses establishing a matter. • Paul repeats that pattern: “Every matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses” (2 Corinthians 13:1; cf. 1 Timothy 5:19). • Two warnings affirm fairness, patience, and ample opportunity for repentance while guarding the flock (Acts 20:28-30). Final Action: Loving but Firm • “Reject” (παραιτοῦ) means to refuse association without bitterness—like Jesus’ instruction to treat as an outsider, not as an enemy. • 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 clarifies the tone: “Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” • The goal remains restoration if repentance follows (2 Corinthians 2:6-8). Heart Attitude While Disciplining • Approach with gentleness: “Restore him in a spirit of gentleness” (Galatians 6:1). • Guard against pride: “Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted” (Galatians 6:1). • Pursue peace: “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit” (Ephesians 4:3). Practical Takeaways • Move deliberately: neither rush to judgment nor delay obedience. • Keep records of warnings; clarity serves both parties. • Involve spiritually mature witnesses who model humility. • Let the gathered body affirm the decision for transparency and accountability. • If separation becomes necessary, continue praying and leave the door open to repentance and restoration. Titus 3:11 and Matthew 18:15-17 harmonize as two inspired lenses on one discipline process—patient warnings leading, if needed, to loving separation for the sake of the sinner’s repentance and the church’s purity. |
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