Reconciliation in Matthew 18:15-18
Matthew 18:15-18 provides a process for reconciliation when:
- there is sin to which there has been no repentance
- the sin was witnessed by others, Deuteronomy 19:15, Numbers 35:30, 1 Timothy 5:19, 2 Corinthians 13:1, Matthew 18:16
The spirit of reconciliation is meek and gentle. Consider Galatians 6:1 and 2 Timothy 2:24-25:
Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.
2 Timothy 2:24-25: And the Lord’s servante must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness. God may perhaps grant them repentance leading to a knowledge of the truth
If someone has sinned against you, go to them in a spirit of meekness and gentleness. However, unless you have eyewitnesses, the process cannot go any further.
Believer, if you are at that point, I encourage you to rest in the knowledge that you have been reconciled to God. He will repay each person according to what they have done, and He has sent Jesus who will judge the world in righteousness one day, Acts 17:31, Psalm 98:9, Matthew 25:31-46. You can find your rest in Christ alone.