Why is addressing sin privately important according to Matthew 18:15? Setting the Scene Matthew records Jesus speaking to His disciples about life in the community of faith. In 18:15 He says: “If your brother sins against you, go and confront him privately. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over.” Why Start in Private? • Restoration is the goal. Private conversation keeps the focus on winning the brother, not embarrassing him. • 2 Corinthians 5:18 calls believers “ministers of reconciliation.” Starting one-on-one puts reconciliation first. • Love covers before it exposes. • “Whoever covers an offense seeks love.” (Proverbs 17:9) • “Above all, love one another deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” (1 Peter 4:8) • Protects from gossip and needless division. • “The words of a gossip are like choice morsels.” (Proverbs 18:8) Private dealings silence rumors before they start. • Honors the offender’s dignity. • Galatians 6:1 directs those who are spiritual to “restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness.” Private correction models that gentleness. • Prevents escalation. • James 5:19–20 reminds us that turning a sinner back “will save his soul from death and cover a multitude of sins.” One private step can halt a downward spiral. The Built-In Process Jesus Gives 1. Private approach (v. 15). 2. If dismissed, bring one or two witnesses (v. 16). 3. If still unheeded, involve the church (v. 17). Beginning quietly gives every chance for step 1 to succeed, sparing the believer and the church from further, more painful stages. Practical Takeaways • Check your motive: seek restoration, not vindication. • Pray first, then speak kindly and directly. • Listen as much as you talk; you may discover misunderstanding, not malice. • Keep details confidential unless step 2 becomes necessary. • If the brother listens, celebrate—the relationship is “won.” Addressing sin privately guards unity, upholds love, and mirrors the Father’s heart, who “desires mercy, not sacrifice” (Matthew 9:13). |
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