For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
What does Matthew 18:20 mean?
If a professed Christian is wronged by another, he ought not to complain of it to others, as is often done merely upon report, but to go to the offender privately, state the matter kindly, and show him his conduct.
Key themes
Read with
Keep this verse inside Matthew 18:18-20 and alongside a few nearby related passages.
Commentary on Matthew 18:20
For where two or three ... - This is a general assertion made to support the particular promise made Matthew 18:19 to his apostles. He affirms that wherever two or three are assembled together in his name, he is in the midst of them. In my name - That is, 1. By my authority, acting for me in my church. See John 10:25 ; John 16:23 . 2. It may mean for my service; in the place of prayer and praise, assembled in obedience to my commend, and with a desire to promote my glory. There am I in the midst of them - Nothing could more clearly prove that Jesus must be omnipresent, and, of course, be God.
Key words
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Context in Matthew 18
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Matthew 18 belongs to the middle movement of the book, especially the section often described as conflict and parables of the kingdom. Matthew presents Jesus as Davidic Messiah, new Moses, teacher of the kingdom, suffering Son of Man, and risen Lord who commissions the nations. Read this chapter with the wider themes of fulfillment, kingdom of heaven, and discipleship in view so the individual verses keep their proper weight.
Related topics
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Passages on the nature of truth, honesty, deception, the word of God as truth, and Jesus' claim to be the truth.
Who quoted Matthew 18:20?
Find out who used Matthew 18:20 in their speeches and writings. Which famous people quoted Matthew 18:20?
Quotes found on Wikiquote (match for «where two or three are gathered»):
Church · Origen · Sarabaites