JEFF TURNER

Some people find comfort in Matthew 18:20, where Jesus says, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.” This is often quoted to reassure believers who feel alone. But the meaning of the passage is not about general comfort or fellowship.

Consider the wider context of Matthew 18. Jesus is speaking about church discipline. When someone in the church continues in sin without repentance, the process includes confronting them privately, then with one or two others. If there’s still no change, it’s brought before the church. The gathering of two or three witnesses is to confirm the response of the person being corrected. They witness whether the individual has repented or not. Jesus promises His presence in this difficult process. He is there not simply to comfort, but to support the pursuit of purity within the church.

This doesn’t mean Jesus is only present when believers gather in groups. In fact, other scriptures like Matthew 28:20 say, “Lo, I am with you always,” reminding us that His presence is with each believer at all times. Believers can pray alone, trust that Christ dwells in them, and know that they are never truly alone.

Matthew 18:20 is about accountability, not comfort.