Interviewer: Matthew, can you tell us about the passage in your book called Matthew 18:15?

Matthew: Yes, of course. This passage is about resolving conflicts within the church. Jesus was teaching us how to deal with disputes between fellow members.

Interviewer: Can you elaborate on what Jesus taught?

Matthew: Sure. Jesus said that if someone offends you, you should go and talk to them privately. Explain the issue and try to resolve it between the two of you.

Interviewer: That sounds like a good start. What if that doesn’t work?

Matthew: Well, Jesus said that if the person doesn’t listen to you, then you should take one or two others with you and try again. Having witnesses can help establish the facts and make the situation more transparent.

Interviewer: And if that doesn’t work either?

Matthew: Then Jesus said that you should bring the matter before the church. If the person still refuses to listen, then they should be treated as an unbeliever and removed from the church community.

Interviewer: That sounds like a strict response. Why did Jesus recommend it?

Matthew: Jesus was trying to emphasize the importance of unity and reconciliation within the church. He wanted us to realize that conflict can be harmful and that we should do everything in our power to resolve it peacefully. If a person is unwilling to reconcile, then they are undermining the very unity that Jesus taught us to cherish.

Interviewer: Thank you for explaining that to us, Matthew.

Matthew: You’re welcome. It’s always a pleasure to talk about Jesus and His teachings.