Matthew 18:17: “If they still refuse to listen, tell it to the church; and if they refuse to listen even to the church, treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector.”

Extended Explanation

This verse outlines the final steps in handling unrepentant sin within the Christian community. If private correction and the involvement of witnesses fail to bring repentance, Jesus instructs that the matter should be brought before the church. This step ensures transparency and allows the entire body of believers to appeal to the individual in love. If the person continues to refuse correction, Jesus says they should be treated as a “pagan or a tax collector,” meaning they are no longer regarded as part of the believing community.

However, this doesn’t mean they are abandoned or mistreated. Jesus’ ministry shows that He treated pagans and tax collectors with compassion and as people in need of redemption. This instruction balances accountability with love, showing that discipline is meant to encourage repentance and restoration, not to punish or exclude unnecessarily.

Historical Context

In the early church, the “church” referred to a local gathering of believers who worshiped, learned, and lived out their faith together. These were small, close-knit groups where conflicts could easily affect the entire community. Bringing an unrepentant person before the church would have been a serious step, emphasizing the importance of unity and holiness within the group.

Jesus’ mention of pagans and tax collectors would have resonated with His audience. Pagans were those outside the covenant community of Israel, and tax collectors were often seen as corrupt and traitorous. The instruction to treat an unrepentant person in this way reflected a shift in their relationship with the community, acknowledging that their refusal to repent created a barrier to fellowship.

Theological Implications

This verse highlights the importance of accountability and discipline within the church. It shows that sin cannot be ignored because it harms individuals and the broader community. At the same time, the process Jesus outlines is deeply relational and seeks restoration at every step. The goal is not punishment but repentance and reconciliation.

The mention of treating someone as a “pagan or a tax collector” also emphasizes the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance. It reflects God’s holiness and His call for His people to live in obedience to His will. However, it also points to God’s grace, as even those outside the community are not beyond His love and the possibility of restoration.

Literary Analysis

This verse serves as the culmination of the process Jesus describes in Matthew 18:15–17. The progression from private confrontation to involving witnesses to addressing the entire church reflects a careful, step-by-step approach to conflict resolution. The phrase “treat them as you would a pagan or a tax collector” is striking, creating a clear picture of the shift in relationship while leaving room for continued love and outreach.

This teaching fits into the broader theme of Matthew 18, which emphasizes humility, care for the vulnerable, and the importance of reconciliation. The connection between accountability and love runs throughout the chapter.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 5:12–13: “What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. ‘Expel the wicked person from among you.'”
• Galatians 6:1: “Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.”
• 2 Thessalonians 3:14–15: “Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.”
• Luke 19:10: “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.”

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

For Christians today, this verse highlights the importance of addressing sin within the church with both love and seriousness. It calls believers to take responsibility for maintaining the health and unity of their community. While the process of church discipline is difficult, it is meant to reflect God’s desire for restoration and to protect the integrity of the church.

This verse also challenges Christians to balance accountability with grace. Even when someone refuses to repent, they are still to be treated with compassion and as someone who needs God’s love. The focus remains on restoration, not rejection.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is evident in this verse through His commitment to holiness and reconciliation. He provides clear instructions for addressing sin in a way that prioritizes restoration and protects the church. Even when separation becomes necessary, God’s love is not withdrawn. His heart is always for repentance and renewal, reflecting His patient and redemptive nature.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself modeled how to treat pagans and tax collectors. He ate with them, spoke truth to them, and invited them into a relationship with God. This verse reminds us that even when someone is no longer part of the believing community, they are not beyond God’s reach. Jesus’ death and resurrection offer the hope of forgiveness and restoration for everyone, including those who have strayed from the church.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why is it important to follow the steps Jesus outlines for addressing sin in the church?
2. How can the church balance accountability with love when handling unrepentant sin?
3. What does it mean to treat someone as a “pagan or a tax collector” in a way that reflects Jesus’ example?
4. How does this verse challenge your understanding of discipline within the church?
5. How can you pray for and support someone who has been separated from the church in the hope of their repentance?

This verse calls believers to handle sin within the church with wisdom, grace, and a focus on restoration, reflecting God’s love and holiness in every step of the process.