Having a restoration mindset i.e. "getting back to Scripture" is a tricky thing. It's what we think we want, but when it comes to the application of a "rediscovered truth" it meets with established tradition and then there's a decision to make. Tradition can be a great thing and most likely is. However, it can hold us in patterns of thought that do not allow us to see Scripture clearly.
An example:
"For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."
Matt 18:20 (NRSV)
Maybe you have been taught to believe that this is about worship and how many it takes to "officially" have it.
I hear this explanation everywhere I go and I was taught that was correct, until I read it in its context.
Read it in context:
15 "If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. 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."
Matt 18:15-20 (NRSV)
It seems that Jesus is talking about resolving conflict. The two or three gathered in His name have gathered to take care of a sin problem (conflict). Christ is present to aid in the process. How did we ever get a worship assembly out of this context?
It would be a shame if our only thought of Matthew 18:15-20 was, "you have to at least two people to worship" and miss the power of resolving the conflict Jesus way.
Have a Great Day!
Deny
An example:
"For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."
Matt 18:20 (NRSV)
Maybe you have been taught to believe that this is about worship and how many it takes to "officially" have it.
I hear this explanation everywhere I go and I was taught that was correct, until I read it in its context.
Read it in context:
15 "If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. 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."
Matt 18:15-20 (NRSV)
It seems that Jesus is talking about resolving conflict. The two or three gathered in His name have gathered to take care of a sin problem (conflict). Christ is present to aid in the process. How did we ever get a worship assembly out of this context?
It would be a shame if our only thought of Matthew 18:15-20 was, "you have to at least two people to worship" and miss the power of resolving the conflict Jesus way.
Have a Great Day!
Deny
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