Resolving Church Disputes

Scripture: Exodus 12:1-14 and Psalm 149  • Ezekiel 33:7-11 and Psalm 119:33-40  • Romans 13:8-14  • Matthew 18:15-20

Jesus' beautiful saying that when two or more are gathered in his name, he is in their midst is often read at weddings, and, in fact, is sublimely present in one of my favorite songs of Peter, Paul and Mary, "The Wedding Song," but Jesus said this in regard to matters of church discipline. What do we do when there is conflict in the church?

In this week's gospel lesson, Jesus  instructs the church which will carry his good news as a mission to the world about what do if another member of the church "sins" against you. The Greek word for sin is αμαρτάνω, which means "missing the mark. A discreet one on one meeting with the offending person is the step, followed by another discreet meeting, and finally a meeting of the church itself. All of this respects the dignity of persons. If that doesn't resolve it, then what? We should look at the context in which Jesus speaks. Immediately prior to this message, Jesus teaches the disciples about humility when they ask who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven, saying that unless you become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Immediately after this week's gospel, Jesus answer's Peter's question of "how many times must I forgive my brother who sins against me," with "seventy times seven," which means what?

Humility, forgiveness and reconciliation are at the heart of Jesus' instructions for resolving church disputes. Many have interpreted the gospel to authorize shunning. What should we do when one leaves the church? How is "power" or "authority" to be exercised and received?

Finally, if we remember that when two are three are gathered in his name, he is with us, how can we not come together in humility in the presence of the one who gave his all that all might be saved?

Consider these articles: "What kind of Community Will We Be?" by David Lose; "Unforgiven," by William L. Hawkins; "A Careful Read," by Deanna Langle; and "The Power to Bind or Loose," by The Rev. Whitney Rice; The Beloved Community by Debie Thomas.