Road to Reconciliation

"Moreover if your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he hears you, you have gained your brother. But if he will not hear, take with you one or two more. ... And if he refuses to hear them, tell it to the church. But if he refuses even to hear the church, let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector." (Matthew 18:15-17 NKJV)

"Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said ... "Up to seventy times seven." (Matthew 18:21-22 NKJV)

This simple formula is perhaps more abused and neglected than anything Christ taught. It directs me to humbly confront my brother or sister—and my own sin (Galatians 6:1-5)—with a goal of reconciliation. If the matter does not merit broken fellowship, better to simply forgive and release minor offense. If the matter is truly serious, broken fellowship comes only at the end of appropriate confrontation. Telling it to others has its place, but should be carefully considered first (Proverbs 6:16-19).

Lord Jesus, Thank You for the incredible price You paid to enable our reconciliation to the Father. Please incline our prideful hearts toward reconciliation, that we may be one in You.

Feedback invited. Post to BuildingHisBody.com "Comments" or e-mail to BuildingHisBody@gmail.com. Copyright 2008, Anne Lang Bundy