Devine Scripture

Matthew 18:15

What does Matthew 18:15 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 18:15 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 18:15 means

Jesus outlines the critical first step in addressing a brother's sin: a private, direct confrontation, initiated by the offended party. The goal is not public shaming but restoration—to 'gain your brother' back to fellowship and righteousness. This approach emphasizes personal responsibility, humility, and the desire to preserve the relationship, offering a discreet opportunity for repentance and reconciliation away from the scrutiny of others. It underscores the importance of valuing the brother over one's own sense of grievance.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And if thy brother sin against thee, go, show him his fault between thee and him alone: if he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And if your brother does wrong to you, go, make clear to him his error between you and him in private: if he gives ear to you, you have got your brother back again.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`And if thy brother may sin against thee, go and show him his fault between thee and him alone, if he may hear thee, thou didst gain thy brother;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But if thy brother shall offend against thee, go, and rebuke him between thee and him alone. If he shall hear thee, thou shalt gain thy brother.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But if thy brother sin against thee, go, reprove him between thee and him alone. If he hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.

Context

This verse marks a significant transition from the theme of caring for the 'little ones' (verses 10-14) to the practical matter of conflict resolution and discipline within the Christian community. It begins a step-by-step process for addressing sin among believers, starting with the most private approach, which is vital for maintaining peace and purity within the assembly.

v.14Even so it is not the will of your Father who is in heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.

v.15This passage

v.16But if he hear thee not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Galatians 6:1

    Brethren, even if a man be overtaken in any trespass, ye who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; looking to thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

  • 1 Corinthians 6:6

    but brother goeth to law with brother, and that before unbelievers?

  • Luke 17:3

    Take heed to yourselves: if thy brother sin, rebuke him; and if he repent, forgive him.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:15

    And yet count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

  • Colossians 3:13

    forbearing one another, and forgiving each other, if any man have a complaint against any; even as the Lord forgave you, so also do ye:

  • 1 Corinthians 9:19

    For though I was free from all men, I brought myself under bondage to all, that I might gain the more.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Matthew 18

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Matthew 18.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Matthew 18:15.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary