Matthew 18:18 Meaning: Understanding the Power of Binding and Loosing
What is the Meaning of Matthew 18:18?
Matthew 18:18 is a profound statement from Jesus that grants authority to his followers:
"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."
Binding and Loosing in the Context
In the context of this verse, "binding" and "loosing" refer to the authority to declare something forbidden or permitted. This authority extended to both spiritual and practical matters within the early Christian community.
Binding: Prohibiting or restricting certain actions or behaviors considered harmful or sinful.
Loosing: Permitting or allowing actions or behaviors that were previously forbidden.
The Significance of this Authority
Jesus's words empower believers to act as representatives of his kingdom on earth. They have the responsibility to discern and declare God's will in matters of faith and practice. This authority is not absolute but is to be exercised in accordance with biblical principles and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
How to Exercise this Authority
Exercising the authority granted in Matthew 18:18 requires humility, wisdom, and a heart submitted to God's will. Here are some principles to consider:
- Seek God's Guidance: Pray for discernment and seek the Holy Spirit's guidance in binding and loosing.
- Ground in Scripture: Ensure that decisions are based on biblical truth and principles.
- Consider the Community: Decisions should take into account the needs and well-being of the Christian community.
- Be Accountable: Recognize that the authority granted carries responsibility. Decisions should be made with integrity and accountability to God and the church.
Examples of Binding and Loosing
Throughout history, Christian leaders have used the authority of binding and loosing to:
- Declare certain doctrines heretical: Binding them from being taught as Christian truth.
- Absolve sins: Loosing individuals from the guilt and consequences of sin.
- Establish church discipline: Binding certain behaviors as unacceptable and imposing consequences.
- Grant permission for actions: Loosing certain restrictions or allowing activities that were previously forbidden.
Matthew 18:18 is a reminder of the authority and responsibility entrusted to believers. By exercising this authority in humility, wisdom, and submission to God's will, Christians can help establish and maintain a vibrant and healthy Christian community that reflects the kingdom of God.
What is the meaning of Matthew 18:18?
In Matthew 18:18, Jesus says, "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." This verse is often interpreted to mean that whatever decisions the church makes on earth will be ratified in heaven. This verse is often used to support the idea that the church has the authority to forgive sins and to excommunicate members.
What is the context of Matthew 18:18?
Matthew 18:18 is part of a larger passage in which Jesus is instructing his disciples on how to deal with conflict within the church. In the verses leading up to 18:18, Jesus tells his disciples to confront their brother if they have sinned against him. If the brother does not repent, then the matter should be brought to the church. If the brother still does not repent, then he should be considered an outsider.
How can we apply Matthew 18:18 to our lives?
We can apply Matthew 18:18 to our lives by following these steps:
- When we have a conflict with someone, we should first try to resolve it privately. If we are unable to do so, then we should bring the matter to the church.
- If the church is unable to resolve the conflict, then we should consider the person to be an outsider.
- We should pray for those who have wronged us and forgive them.
