I hear Matthew 18:20 taken out of context and used often by American Evangelicals to mean something I do not think even they really mean.
Here is the verse.
20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ NRSVA
I do not think people really believe that Jesus is not with people individually and so we have to gather two or three for Jesus to be there. But, this passage is often used to imply that Jesus really shows up when we gather in groups.
If we look at the context, we find that this verse is specifically dealing with how Jesus supports the group’s decisions when there is conflict between two members of the group.
Reproving Another Who Sins
15 ‘If another member of the church[d] sins against you,[e] go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one.[f] 16 But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17 If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax-collector. 18 Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19 Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20 For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.’ NRSVA
Jesus is there with us as individuals. He is there with us as we gather in groups. He defers to the group as it tries to handle conflict.
First posted January 26, 2022
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