Matthew 18:20 (KJV)
For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
This verse, in my estimation, undeniably relates to the local church. The context clearly reveals this:
Matthew 18:17-20 (KJV)
And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
From this passage, I see several key truths regarding the local church:
The Authority of the Local Church on Earth
In matters of offense, the final appeal is to the church.
The Authority of the Local Church in Heaven
The local church can discern the will of the Lord. This is not to say that the church changes God’s will, but that God reveals His will through the workings of the local church.
The Function of the Local Church
It operates as a body of believers unified in purpose and prayer.
A church is not a universal, invisible body of every Christian of any persuasion. Rather, it is a local assembly of believers united around a common faith and purpose.
The Presence of the Local Church
Just two or three gathered in Jesus’ name can constitute a local church.
This is because Jesus promises to be in their midst. However, it is not merely any two or three individuals; the implication of the passage points to an organized body. The membership number may vary, but it is essential that they are specifically organized as a church.
#LocalChurchAuthority #BiblicalUnity #Matthew1820 #ChurchDoctrine #OrganizedFaith
Gathered in His Name: The Biblical Foundation of the Local Church
Are you actively participating in a body of believers unified in faith and purpose? Study Matthew 18:17-20, and consider how you can strengthen your role in a local church that seeks God’s will and walks in His authority.
What do you think is the most important function of a local church? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more biblical insights and resources, visit marvinmckenzie.org. Let’s grow in faith together!
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