Both Christians and unbelievers are guilty of misusing Bible verses by ripping them from their original context. This is post 4 in the Commonly Misused Bible Verses series.

So far I have commented on 2 Chronicles 7: These two verses are often pulled out of their contexts by well-meaning Christians. Click on the links for more information on any of those articles. Bear in mind that I am not trying to pick on anyone or attack them for misusing these verses. Think about how many times you have heard someone quote or summarize this passage during a prayer or immediately before praying.

For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them. The idea that is commonly promoted is that if there are two or more people gathered together who agree on something, and they ask God for it in prayer, then Jesus will be present and God will answer their request. However, before we do that, can you see some problems with the idea that God will grant the request of those who come together and are in agreement in prayer?

Also, why would it take two or three believers to be gathered together for Jesus to be in their midst? So there are already a couple of problems with the common use of this passage.

This section deals with a subject that most churches completely neglect: Jesus said that if you have a brother who sins against you, then you need to go to him and try to work it out.

If he refuses to acknowledge his fault, then you bring one or two more witnesses to help work things out. So including you, that would make two or three witnesses —recognize that phrase? Not only is it repeated in these verses, but it comes from the Old Testament Deuteronomy Legal cases needed to have two or three witnesses to establish a matter. If the sinning brother did not make things right in the presence of two or three witnesses, then the case was to be brought before the church.

I know that sounds harsh in our day because precious few churches practice discipline as Jesus instructed, but that is what we are commanded to do. On disciplining the erring brother. Before I finish this post let me stress what the Bible actually does say about prayer. So we can have confidence about God answering our prayers when we are obediently following Him and praying according to His will. Emily, I truly hope this is not how you interpret the Bible—yanking a verse from its context to make it mean what you want.

But the chief priests, the scribes, and the leaders of the people sought to destroy Him, and were unable to do anything; for all the people were very attentive to hear Him. The context is of utmost importance. In the same way, Matthew If two or three agree to pray for a billion dollars, is God obligated to give it to them based on your interpretation of this verse? What if two or three agree to pray that someone should be killed in a horrible car accident—would God have to honor that?

Robert, Was your reply intended as a response to something I said or to someone else? Tim, thank you for clarifying Matthew I am reading the book of Matthew and when I read this verse, it did not make sense. Therefore, I decided to research and fortunately I discovered your blog.

As a result of reading your blog I have a better understanding of what this verse means. Keep up the good work! Look at Abraham, Jacob, Samuel, job, Elijah, David, Peter, Paul, and many other biblical persons were alone and the spirit of God did bless and do mighty works through them. Tim for your God inspired wisdom that you are sharing.

Tim, thank you so much for obeying the Holy Spirit and letting Him teach you and also sharing His truths with your brothers and sisters in Christ. Norton Sterrett at our church. The one thing my husband, who was our Pastor until his passing a few years ago, stressed to us was to interpret scripture soundly and correctly using biblical hermeneutics. Even the songs we sung had to be biblically correct.

If this type of teaching were applied in churches today as the Bereans did three fourths of the comments below would not be.

People must understand that the scripture was given to us in common language so that all could understand. The incorrect interpretation could have a profound impact on our destiny and salvation. It is imperative that we interpret scripture soundly and correctly. If we are to understand what we are reading then the rules of communication laws of language must be applied or followed.

We must recognize that meaning is singular, not plural. There have been many interpretations of Matt. Are they all right?

Can that be possible? All interpretations are incorrect except for one. The interpretation is determined by the writer or speaker. Though we all have the right to interpret the Bible for ourself, we do not have the right to make up our own interpretation or rules. Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us do as II Tim. Do we really want to know what the scripture says to us? Do we really want to hear from God through His Holy Spirit regarding Himself?

Can we put aside our own thoughts and beliefs regarding the interpretation of scripture so that we may be able to give an answer a correct answer to those who ask? He gives no denominational leaning but simple, everyday instructions of how to apply the laws of language to Biblical interpretation. The blessings that await us through His word are many.

We can have confidence in the knowledge of scripture knowing that we can give an answer to those who ask for a reason of the hope that is in us IPet. Tim for your diligence to search the scripture for true understanding and to share those gems of wisdom with us all. I teach 6th grade Bible class and referenced this Scripture as I was talking about how we need to have the right attitude during prayer.

I have been so confused about this verse. I joined church in after my mother died. I read the Bible all the way through and have to admit I still do not know much about it. But this verse stuck in my head perhaps because I hear it almost every week at church from the pastor.

I pray every day but now am wondering if God really hears my prayers since I am alone. It is disheartening to think that he does not. Hi Gloria, As I mentioned in the post, you do not need to be in a group setting for the Lord to hear your prayers. If you are a genuine believer in Jesus Christ, then you can be assured that God does hear your prayers.

Nothing in the Bible indicates that He only hears us when we pray together. He will hear your prayers when you are alone and when you are in a group. But the great thing about being a believer, and this is what I was trying to communicate in the post, is that God is always present with you—not just when two or three gather in His name.

I hope this helps. As you read and study, be sure to ask the Holy Spirit to teach you.

30 Bible Verses About Investing: Getting Good Counsel, Planning Ahead And Diversifying

It made me sound like I was biblically Savvy! Like a cool CHRISTIAN, ETC!! Well, I just about wrote it down on a txt to a friend! As I mentioned, I was confused! As like Gloria mentioned how she was often alone! I too am usually physically alone!! So, as a human, I thought, to myself! Oh, Nobody will ever know that actually, those words make No Sence! But it makes me sound good! OH MY FLIPPEN GOODNESS SAKES!!

With all kidding aside!! I think it was No accident that I found this site! Thank u sooooo much for being there for all us non biblical savvy humans!!!! I learned a lot today! I understand that Matthew scripture vs. In addition, I am not trying to argue, but to understand the scriptures fully as God would want, and I appreciate you taking your time to answer each question. Hi Lurlene, Thanks for reading and for your comment. Stay strong in the Lord.

The challenge is now to apply this in my situation… I find people dont want to be a whitness! Thank you for clarifying this misused verse. It has helped tremendously after losing my husband 4 years ago to a brain tumor, he was 54 yrs old.

Anyway, when people use scripture out of context it can have very adverse affects on newer Christians. When referring to gathered it made me feel like my prayers, while alone, were worthless. Thank you for clarifying!! Hi Tim, I saw you response to Lurlene. In a sense, He is telling them that the decision of the church in this situation if done properly would carry His endorsement. Thank you Tim for serving. I understand your interpretation and respect it.

However, I have to disagree with your thoughts. While God has answered my prayers based on his will, rather than if requested by a group of believers or 1 believer, you seem to imply that praying in groups holds no greater value than praying alone. Jesus prayed to the Father among the apostles as he did alone in the wilderness. We pray alone on a one-on-one relationship with God, but also gather in groups to worship, praise Him and pray for his helping hand.

An example in scripture talks about 1 stick can be easily broken but that same stick is hard to break when bundled together with multiple sticks. If we felt so confident that praying in groups held no greater value, we would not gather with prayer groups, prayer chains and congregate with fellowship at places of worship. Praise God for the gift of Scripture that can be interpreted as we choose provided that he listens, acknowledges and answers. There is no wrong in believing that 2 or more will be heard by Him just as there is no wrong in believing He will listen if one prays alone.

Hi Ricardo, Thanks for taking the time to read the post and leave a response. But after looking at my wording, I can see where I could clarify that some more. I may add a sentence or two to make that clear. What about this one? If you really want to know what the Word of God means ask the Holy Spirit, this is not the Gospel according to Tim. For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: We are all trying to pursue the truth. Do not judge people for we are all a little lost still.

Let our words be an inspiration to unbelievers. We should all pray for guidance in using the Word of God. I have always misquoted this verse and today in my study, I saw it differently, like you have explained.

I found your blog looking for the true meaning of actually verse number Can you tell me your thoughts of the binding and loosing? That is very different than anything I have thought or heard.

Can you tell me your thoughts? The congregation in the new testament is warned about sin accepted among them. In these verses the binding and loosing is in connection with the assembly sharing responsibility, or having to separate from the person. If the person has confessed and forsaken the sin, the assembly ought to continue with the person — the sin is loosed from the person, and bound to the assembly.

I am compelled to disagree, here, sir. What I am saying is, I was a Bible college student, back inwhen I needed money to stay in school or for school books, clothes, food, etc. When I had a need, I would go and find a brother or sister, with whom I would pray, believing that the Lord would provide these things.

This even works, when praying for healing, mind you. Unless the person, praying, is anointed with the Spiritual Gift of healing, the people, praying, have the added advantage of praying in numbers and believing. That, alone, brings healing to many individuals. I was told the lady, who makes these, prays as she does and then a church, intercessory prayer ministry prays over them before sending them to people, whom they know, have physical prayer needs.

I have slept on this blanket for the past two nights and my pressure ssore is deminishing, already. Now, to end this, allow me to share, with you, my testimony: InI had the privelege of seeing Dr. Scott, downtown in a restaurant, where his chin dropped, when he realized that half-dead year old was not only fully alive, but also walking. I can only wonder what would have happened, had people not prayed, in You can add to that,andwhen I should also have died from complications to the original meningitis.

In light of your comments, what do you say to Christians who have lost loved ones to terrible diseases even though they prayed fervently and had hundreds, or even thousands, of other faithful believers praying for that person to be healed? The important thing is to pray for his will. See, my daddy had leukemia inthe church was praying for him.

The sunday school teacher on a particular sunday asked if anyone had a request. I asked the sunday school teacher to let everyone pray for my daddy to be healed.

That was the hardest prayer to pray because God knew what I wanted. But I knew that he knew best. I had to see things unfold, and I believe with all of my heart that my daddy would have backslid on God. Knowing the mind of God is paramount.

Your Story Is so close To what happened with my father. When I was 10 my father Had Cancer. And the Preacher and some others was Praying for my father At a house and The Spirit Of God a White Dove they seen. And at the same time my father was in the Hospital he was watching Tv and he seen the dove fly over.

A week before he went home to Heaven he said to us. Lord your will be done and just after they Prayed my father went home to heaven. Most people use the term backslidden to mean someone who has walked away from their faith in Christ: The bible teaches no such thing. Once we come into saving faith, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit until we go to be with Christ. Someone can be disobedient and live contrary to the word of God for sinful reasons, and for that he may suffer a sense of disfellowship with the Lord, but if he had a genuine conversion, he remains adopted into the family of God albeit a disobedient one suffering the consequences of that.

At the same time the people in which prayed for you were true believers. I cringe when I hear people misuse this one because years ago someone tried to justify their not attending or belonging to a church by using this scripture! Regarding church discipline to the point of disfellowship is that to be applied to all sins?

For someone who is gossiping or known to lie or has a falling out, disagreement with a brother or sister in Christ, has slandered some one, or other sins that are not sexual in nature? Hi Jeanne, Theoretically, yes, I believe church discipline can be applied to all sins, at least all sins in which one sins against a brother or sister. In practice, this is very difficult since so many of our sins are committed in our own private thoughts.

But gossip, slander, lying, etc. Sometimes, the first two steps may be unnecessary. For example, in the case of gossip, a person may have already spread rumors throughout the congregation and the elders may need to step in immediately to address the gossip and deal with the gossiper.

People tend to think gossip and slander as a little sin. It was this sin that the serpent used with Eve. As a small spark sets a forest on fire and as a spark is easier to put out so to big sins are prevented when ALL sins are dealt with.

Does this mean if God does not answer when 2 to 3 gathered and prayed not according to His will, God is a liar? Hi Jung, No, it would not mean that God is a liar. This would be an example of ripping the verse from its context, which is the point of the blog post.

The context explains that Jesus is speaking about matters of church discipline. After the first two approaches have failed in correcting an erring brother one-on-one attempt to reconcile, then a meeting with 2 or 3 othersthen the issue becomes a matter for the church to decide.

Within this context, Jesus is telling His disciples that the agreement of the 2 or 3 witnesses who have been part of the process will carry His authority to carry out the necessary discipline within the church. This only made her angry and she said I was talking down to to her. This seems to me to be very disrespectful of God and His communication to us.

He is not learn forex trading systems and strategies vague in what He has said.

I have a non-denominational friend who references Matthew He says Andreas gursky chicago stock exchange is referring to us individually as the church and all that matters is our own personal relationship.

Hi Steve, I find that interpretation to be highly unlikely. In the first three chapters of Revelation, Jesus addresses seven local congregations through the letters He told John to write.

He did not deny the idea of a local church. Many of the epistles were written to instruct local congregations how they should function. I appreciate your passion towards understanding the bible in context, and you also explain it very very well. Thank you, and keep up the amazing work you are doing! This article is actually a better example of how the context argument is misused, rather than how the verses are misused. So……the context involves having multiple witnesses that agree to support a case in general, not just church discipline in particular.

Having two or three witnesses who agree difference between trading commodities and stocks prayer make a strong case to God, just as having two or three witnesses who have agreeing testimonies in court make a strong case there.

One glaring omission in the article is the failure to address the first word: It reminds me of James White taking hours to twist John 3: I would agree that it is crystal clear, and what I laid out in this very bahrain stock exchange market article is in line with the majority of Christian commentators on the book of Matthew.

See my comment here detailing several of these: You are the perfect example of a Christian who twists the Bible into saying whatever it is you want it to say. Jesus, as does Paul and John, was referencing the laws of fairness in court that is found in the Torah:. But no one is to be put to death on the testimony of only one witness. A matter must be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.

Oh Brother Tim, what a blessing you are. Just to add my holy spirit two cents. In this case, the losing and binding its directing the disciples and what ever they pray old English for ask on is xyz an error or not, the answer to that question pray will be given by God. I use to be a Catholic but…. However, on group prayer. This issue did come up in a Christian group several weeks ago. It is NOTHING but a man making a comment and proves NOTHING but might add as an insight for you to see if the Word says it.

I wish I could cap the period lol. But since He does answer prayers your statement is not an option. The same would be true for morality. Do you feel we are contstantly trying to sink the three so we can succeed and so we can move foward and live harmoniously? Would or Will God reward us if we half heartingly believe in him or in ourselves.

Or do we have to be one with God to become God like? But only if we become one with what we believe and what we expect with pure faith then nothing is impossible. The father, the son and the Holy Spirit? Alberto, No, I do not believe we are three.

Are we made up of three components, such as body, soul, and spirit? Also, I do not believe we are all gods. Even if I have pure faith, I cannot create a universe from nothing. I cannot raise the dead, give sight to the blind, cleanse the leper, or restore hearing to the deaf.

Is it possible that God would choose to use me to do some of these things not create a universe? Perhaps, although I doubt it. He did use the apostles to do some of these things. So the idea has to do with two or three believers agreeing about disciplining a professing believer for unrepentant sin.

Or it could be that you are reading this because you are being led by the spirit to find that He does exist and eiloves you. Thanks for all your text. But please I have questions to ask not on this topic really but other topic, if you can help me out… The questions is….

I over heard my Pastor said that and Husband to My aunt also, keep on telling me what I could not see in the Bible…. Hi Cy, Thanks for your questions. I hope my response will be helpful for you.

There were a couple of battles that the Israelites should have been able to win without much trouble, but they lost because they were brokers make money bonds obeying the Lord. But in both passages Proverbs 6: They both say the same thing: You said if two or three are gathered in his name and are in agreement concerning the disciplining of the offender that God will grant their requests.

You even said few churches practise discipline in the way that was instructed by Jesus. John, Thanks for taking the time to respond to the post.

There have been plenty of situations where the erring brother repented and was stock exchange summer internship to fellowship. However, I think the main stock market crash fiscal cliff here is that when the situation reaches the stage where there are 2 or 3 witnesses and it has been made a matter of the church, the disciplinary decision made by the church has the backing or stamp of approval of Christ.

The bible says in 2 Timothy 2: Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. Who also hath made us able ministers of the new testament; not of the letter, but of the spirit: I suggest anyone who claim that matthew This commentary is written by theologian and such commentary is widely respected by the Christian scholar community.

What does the Bible say about managing your finances?

Bradley, Thanks for the recommendation. The commentaries I listed were also written by widely respected scholars, theologians, or pastors.

They look for a commentary that says what they want it to say and ignore all others. Our goal must be to carefully study the passage to discover what it actually teaches rather than what we want it to teach. The gist is there is no absolute right or wrong on this particular topic.

There are people from both side of the stock market tipsters on this topic. Either interpretation did not perverse the core beliefs of Christianity. Such debate is a typical example of the story of different people touching different calculate working days between two dates oracle sql of an elephant and form their own narrow opinion of the shape of the object that they are touching.

Bible verses on how to spend money absolute right way to interpret this passage is to understand the words the way that Jesus intended and it would be an absolutely wrong way to interpret them in any other way. I have not claimed to be absolutely right and I have not condemned anyone for disagreeing with me. I also disagree with your elephant analogy. As such, we must strive to do our very best at interpreting Scripture properly.

There is one right interpretation, but there may be many different ways to apply it. I do agree that neither of the two main interpretations of this passage pervert the core beliefs of Christianity. I think the overwhelming majority of Christians would agree that there is no absolute right or wrong way to interpret every verse and passage in the Bible.

This may sound wrong when we listen to it out of context. The Word inspires different people differently otherwise it is no more than a reference book. If we say that there is one and only one way that the Word should work then it is so absolutely wrong on so many levels. You say there is a right way to interpret the cost plus world market distribution center stockton ca but from your post earn money for typing in india comments, I can sense that calculate working days between two dates oracle sql are saying more than that, you are saying YOUR way is the right way because you consistently reject other biblical interpretations.

Christian fellowship is not a debating society but you are treating it as one. In my long life as a Christian, I have never seen a person won over to Christ in a theological debate, on the contrary it turned many away.

I have seen many hardcore sinners turned to Christ because of the compassion and empathy shown by other Christians. We have too much self-righteousness and not enough compassion. As long as the interpretation does not contradict the core beliefs of Christianity, accept it as the mysterious power of how the Word can work in ways beyond our comprehension.

Bradley, With all due respect, there are many problems with what you have written. It seems that you do not understand the distinction between interpretation and application. The Bible is not a book that we can tweak and twist the meaning to fit whatever context we want it to fit.

And yes, there are definitely many absolutely wrong ways to interpret the Bible. I said that there is one right interpretation.

It is found in the mind of the author. Therefore, our goal must be to figure out to the best of our ability what the author intended to communicate to us. Communication would be impossible if meaning is based on what the recipient wants. I should do my best to understand what you actually mean bible verses on how to spend money the words you have written. Your elephant analogy in your last post had another serious problem.

All of the guys in that little tale were wrong because none of them described the creature as an elephant. I have carried on multiple friendly discussions in my comments section with those who disagree. Yet you have come on here and tried to debate me on points while accusing me of trying to turn Christian fellowship into mt4 bollinger bands without ma debating society.

Never have I said that. Obviously, I think I am right in how I interpret these verses—otherwise, I would change my view. But the same can be said for those who forex trading tips for tomorrow with me.

They think they are right. So why am I the egotistical one in all of this? I would assume that the people who are commenting on this post are fellow believers, at least for the most part. The way to lead someone to Christ is through the declaration of the gospel death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christand we often need to earn the right to be heard through the way we treat those we are trying to reach.

I agree with you that there is too much self-righteousness in the church and not enough compassion and empathy. There is too much bickering and arguing and not enough concern for living godly lives.

But there is also far too much flippancy in our approach to Scripture and we must strive to rightly divide the word of truth 2 Timothy 2: I care whether I have properly interpreted Scripture, and if I have not, then I invite anyone to show me from Scripture used in it proper context where I have gotten off track.

I was able to look at an older commentary on Animal crossing gamecube best way to make money by RT France The Tyndale NT Commentary from So France does interpret this passage more broadly than I do, and more broadly than the other commentators that I cited.

Thanks Tim for the post. I was trying to explain this to the wife, and forgot exactly what that scripture meant. The people kicking and fighting againist what the Word is saying is suffering from what the world is suffering from…. Keep up the good work, and may the Lord keep you…. Hi Ralph, Thanks for the encouragement. I like your analogy about a detective working a case. Our goal must be to uncover what the text is really saying, using every tool at our disposal language, history, culture, etc.

I think some of the people who have objected to this post confuse interpretation with application. I have really enjoyed your commentaries and replies. I go to the only expository Bible teaching church on the island of Guam and I am so blessed by our Lord for leading us there to really really learn the word of God. And I am also blessed by the sharing of april stock market commentary commentaries.

Please continue to do the work of the Lord. Someone once pointed out to me I misused Matt The reason the person told me is the same reason quoted by you. I think you and people like you are being too narrow in your view.

Hi John, Thanks for taking the time to read the post and for your disposition stock non open market. The context of this passage has to do with the reconciliation of a brother who had sinned against another.

Will Jesus be present in your prayer meetings and general gatherings? If someone is a believer in those meetings then of course He will be there since He indwells every true believer. So there is not even a need to cite this verse in the way you have done it. I am suprised that you have not seen commentaries that this verse can be applied to a wider context. There are many credible sources you can find. To list one of them — New Bible Commentary 21st Century Edition.

I did not see any credible and independent reference and sources that you have given to support your argument. I would cite the Bible first and foremost for my source. A basic exegesis of the passage will demonstrate that the context has to do with the discipline of the erring brother. Even though I believe the text is rather straightforward, it is helpful to see how scholars have viewed this passage.

The idea that the church on minimum forex trading may bring the authority of heaven to bear on their situation is continued in vs 19—20, where the continued presence of Jesus among his people ensures that their united prayer will be effective. It is not, of course, an automatic guarantee that any petition will be granted, but only such as are compatible with gathering in my name.

Leicester, England; Downers Grove, IL: Inter-Varsity Press, But to quote this passage out of context gives the wrong impression to those who hear it misused. If you would like another commentary that talks about it being misused, here is what Craig Blomberg had to say in the New American Commentary on Matthew:.

It ought to be obvious that God regularly does not fulfill a promise like that of v. In this context v. Craig Blomberg, Matthew, vol. If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you.

The promises in It is possible that the two who agree in During the discipline process, the church may be assured that their deliberations on earth will be confirmed by their Father in heaven and that Jesus is present with them throughout the difficulties.

David Turner and Darrell L. Bock, Cornerstone Biblical Commentary, Vol Matthew and Mark Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, This verse is also frequently misinterpreted, though not with such serious error as in the misinterpretations of the two previous verses. Christ is always present with His people, even with a lone believer totally separated from fellow Christians by prison walls or by hundreds of miles. John MacArthur, The MacArthur New Testament Commentary: Matthew 16—23 Chicago, IL: Moody Press, These two verses are among the most misunderstood in the Bible.

They are traditionally taken to mean that God pays special attention to the prayers of believers when two or more gather or agree together. But such an interpretation is wrong for two reasons: Three out of these four not counting the one you cited commentaries specifically stock market crash casino game lesson plans how these verses are misused.

All of these commentaries clearly state that the passage is about disciplining the brother who sinned. So it looks as though my post is very much in line with what scholars teach on the topic. Thank you for providing the reference. It would have helped if you had provided the reference in your original post to give credence to your point, as it is the standard practice in any serious writing.

No doubt many text in the Bible have been used out of context. I would agree if people used this verse to support the view that God is not with us when we are alone, or God always provide what we ask for when prayed with 2 or 3 people, then it is obviously wrong.

From my understanding this line of explanation is what most of the commentaries that you have quoted presented and I agree with them. But the Bible and commentaries also did not specifically say such principle should not be used outside the context on Matt I think we all ought to exercise wisdom and discernment instead of making sensational blanket conclusion. John, It is actually not standard practice to provide references to commentaries in blog posts.

If this were originally a research paper, then you would be sure to find plenty of documentation. I agree that we all must exercise wisdom and discernment instead of making sensational blanket conclusions. Are you accusing me of doing this? The wisest thing we can do is to stick with what the Bible states and to be very careful in how we interpret and apply it. We must remember to distinguish between our interpretation and our application.

Like MacArthur stated, I think using this passage at the beginning of a general meeting is superfluous and gives those in attendance an inaccurate understanding of this passage.

I realize you posted this article a few years ago now but I stumbled upon it in my search to a question. I help out with a youth group and one of the kids asked me about this verse… apparently both her and I have understood and heard this verse out of context because we were both confused about what it meant!

I just wanted to say thank you for the clarity and now I can share with her an answer that actually makes sense! What a difference it makes when we understand the context of Scripture rather than twisting it to fit our own needs! Though all of Scripture can fit our every need… just not always in the way we expect or want! Hi Mauri, Thank you for taking the time to read the article and comments and to leave your very kind response.

Also, thanks for your ministry in a youth group. I pray that the Lord will bless your efforts there. Some people would rather debate and prove that they are right, instead of seeking God and the Holy Spirit for guidance.

We are never too old to learn, and instead of being curt or flippant, why not pray for one another so we all can gain correct wisdom, understanding and knowledge. We are all human, not one on this board is perfect. Non-believers are always watching for a believer to make the ultimate mistake and that is to not demonstrate love toward our brothers and sisters.

I agree we need to explore the content and context of the Word. My example of unity and answered prayer that too me shows the significance of agreement is the upperroom. They were in one accord. Not this weak one here in America. Hi Dave, I have nothing against people praying in agreement. Without trying to sound flippant, I think the more people that are praying for something, the better it will be, although there is still no guarantee that hundreds of people praying the same thing will bring about the desired result.

These things happen in the church, and we need to show the world that we can disagree on things and still work together to make disciples. My main concern with your comment is that after you mentioned that we should look at the content and context of Scripture, you sought to find an example in a passage that is descriptive rather than prescriptive.

What I mean by that is Acts is primarily a book of the history of the early church. Can we pray together? It does show us that God answered the prayer of the disciples in the upper room. Very interesting to say the least. Like a small bible study. I figured it went back to him telling us not to praise and pray out in public but to go and anoint our own heads and pray and ask in a closet. I always thought he was saying that no matter how small the group as long as you were gathered in his name for the right reasons he was present.

Hi Carol, I am right if I have accurately interpreted this passage. If I have not rightly interpreted it, then I am wrong. Here is how I responded to him:. I would agree with the majority of commentators who view verses 18—20 as a continuation of 15— Most Bibles that use section headings group all of these verses together too. There are reasons for this. They are also linked thematically.

I am not bashing or ridiculing anyone who disagrees with me. I am simply encouraging people to take a closer look at the context of a passage before quoting it and applying it to situations that it probably was not intended for.

The goal of this post and the others in the Commonly Misused Bible Verses series is to encourage Christians to take a close look at the text rather than simply repeating what they have always heard. Is that a bad thing? Your post did make me take a closer look at the verses and i found your post wanting in both content and delivery. If you have written the post with the intention that you claimed to have written it with, the post would not be in its current form.

It would have a different tone had it been written with pure good intention. I sensed ego, glee in seeing things people missed. And none of the fruits of the spirit. I totally agree with you.

We should read the entire chapter to understand what each verse is talking about. I have a question on the last bit you wrote about prayer 1 John 5: How do I know I am praying according to His will?

How do I know if there is a sin or disobedience that displeases Him and I have to repent from it before He answers me? How do I know if I must keep praying and believing He will answer my prayer, He just needs to know I have the Faith to keep believing and keep praying? What if He has answered and said no, but I have not realised it and continue to pray about, and there really is no point if He has said no or it is not His will. Finally, through everything, through all my questions I know with all my being, that no matter what He answers me, I trust in Him, I love Him First, all my hope is in Him and whatever happens, He works all things to the good of those that love Him AND I truly feel deep down in my heart, in my spirit, I know that He will answer my prayer and reconcile and restore what the enemy came to destroy.

Hi Sumeiya, Thanks for reading and taking the time to leave a response. I think your final paragraph is really the key to all of this. No matter what the outcome of the situation s you are dealing with, trust God with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength.

You may not understand why something is happening or why He allows it to continue, but He sees the end from the beginning, and He will work it out in the long run for your good. Jesus told parables of the persistent friend Luke While these seem to discuss different situations, there is a similar point: God is not upset with those who diligently call on Him.

If the matter can be shared with others, then ask them to pray along with you. Then I made the commitment to spend time every morning reading the Bible, praying for His guidance, and getting involved in ministry at my local church working with the youth. In less than three months, I knew exactly what He wanted me to do. Will your answer come that quickly? But I do encourage people to commit their ways to the Lord, and I believe He will guide their steps see Psalm You are way off base as the church did not exist at that time.

It did not exist until Acts 2 Jesus had to purchase our right to have the spirit by his death burial; and resurrection. Why would he teach people Jews to be specific about church matters. I suspect you may be reformed and they love to rebuke people. Manuel, I would agree with you that the church did not officially start until Acts 2 when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples at Pentecost.

However, I am not the one who came up with the idea of using church in this passage. They seem like great procedures to follow. According to your logic, you must be Reformed, since you are rebuking me for my blog post that calls attention to what nearly every commentary says about this passage. If you would look at another one of my posts on commonly misused versesyou will clearly see whether or not I fall into the Reformed camp. I have been to four countries and ten states and have never seen a church willing to love his brother 70 X 7 in a day.

Once I manged to get a two person meating which they called a mediation meeting it took some time but my brother rpented — but like Pharoah he soon took it back and began to slander me again.

Its not about me being wronged its about my friends soul is ill! I have been to foursquare, Calvary Chapel, Vinyard, Presbeterian, Baptist, Vinyard, Peticostel, Apostolic Penticostel and over and over God people use his tool of influence for evil and manipulation and Not for love.

When asked to do it for love they say it is harsh, without grace, even legalistic. The church in Philadelphia, Rev 3, kept His Word, and did not deny His name.

I am sure that it includes Matthew But it is not constituted in the Roman Catholic or Protestant fashion. Look up Bible Truth Publications or email me, djtrawets msn.

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Commonly Misused Bible Verses: Matthew –20 | Tim Chaffey

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I have written or co-authored several books, including In Defense of Easter, God and Cancer, The Sons of God and the Nephilim, and The Truth Chronicles Series see the publications page for more details. View all posts by Tim Chaffey. Comments Commonly Misused Bible Verses: Tim Chaffey on June 14, at 8: Robert Ruffin on May 15, at Robert Ruffin on May 15, at 8: Tim Chaffey on May 15, at 9: Andrea on April 22, at Eddie on April 22, at 8: Robert on May 12, at Robin Johnson on May 16, at 2: Lott-Johnson on April 19, at 8: Fleur on March 3, at Teachteacha on February 5, at Gloria Watkins on February 2, at 6: Tim Chaffey on February 4, at 8: Tim Arnold on March 3, at 3: Tina on March 17, at 3: Lurlene on October 19, at 1: Tim Chaffey on October 28, at 7: Michael on October 28, at 7: Beverly Thompson on November 1, at Raymond Doyle on November 25, at Tim Chaffey on December 2, at 7: Ricardo Flores on December 16, at 3: Tim Chaffey on December 16, at Maria on October 10, at 5: Tim Chaffey on October 10, at 9: Phyllis on October 13, at 1: LRS on September 28, at 5: Tammy on September 23, at Tim Chaffey on October 5, at Dave, a feeble servant on February 24, at 1: Gary Frazier on August 11, at 9: Tim Chaffey on August 19, at 9: Sandy Russell on September 11, at 8: Justin Fowler on September 16, at Danny Tallon on October 9, at 3: Michaela on October 12, at 8: Sandra Coleman on October 25, at Lynne Woods on August 8, at 3: Jeanne on July 30, at 5: Jeanne on July 28, at 2: Tim Chaffey on July 30, at 3: Keith on August 8, at 2: Besides if we are unfaithful in the few we are already unfaithful in the many.

Jung on June 28, at 6: Tim Chaffey on June 30, at Mitzi VanCleve on August 10, at Barnabas Nehemiah on August 29, at 5: Steve on May 2, at 2: Tim Chaffey on July 30, at 8: JK on March 1, at 2: Woober Goober on January 20, at Quoted from the article: Tim Chaffey on January 20, at 8: Doug on March 10, at 1: Bill on December 24, at Is there anywhere in the bible that edifies the seemingly unambiguous words of matt 6?

Any insights for our further Berean study on this issue would be greatly appreciated. Steve on December 8, at 5: Tim Chaffey on December 10, at 7: Kyle on January 18, at Best thought out response I have heard In a while. Alberto on January 18, at 5: Tim Chaffey on January 18, at 8: Judy jorge on July 19, at 9: Cletus on November 10, at 6: Tim Chaffey on November 13, at 1: John on October 18, at 7: Tim Chaffey on October 19, at 7: Tim Chaffey on September 12, at 8: Tim Chaffey on September 14, at 9: Tim Chaffey on September 14, at Elder Gerald Jones on October 18, at 4: Ralph Parks on September 9, at 5: Tim Chaffey on September 9, at Shirley on December 29, at 4: Tim Chaffey on September 6, at 5: Tim Chaffey on September 6, at 9: Hi John, I would cite the Bible first and foremost for my source.

Here is what the New Bible Commentary states regarding the verse in question: If you would like another commentary that talks about it being misused, here is what Craig Blomberg had to say in the New American Commentary on Matthew: Here is the Cornerstone Biblical Commentary on the same verses: Tim Chaffey on September 6, at Mauri on September 3, at 9: Hello, I realize you posted this article a few years ago now but I stumbled upon it in my search to a question. Tim Chaffey on September 4, at 7: Elder Gerald Jones on October 18, at 5: Alesia on August 11, at 2: May our Heavenly Father bless us all!!

DaveGlenn on August 11, at 7: Tim Chaffey on August 11, at 9: Drew on July 26, at Michaela on July 21, at Carol on July 21, at 4: Just curious, what makes you so right and everybody else is wrong. Tim Chaffey on July 21, at 9: Here is how I responded to him: Reyes Urias Jr on June 15, at 7: Sumeiya on June 9, at 3: Tim Chaffey, thank you for putting the verses Matthew Tim Chaffey on July 7, at 7: Sumeiya on July 7, at 7: Manuel Culwell on May 24, at Tim Chaffey on May 26, at 7: