Todd Clippard

Topic(s): Bible Study

I believe the passage in question is applicable to both private confessions of wrong-doing and public. The phrase "one another" is not so restrictive as to eliminate public confession of sin before the local assembly. The Greek word so translated is a reciprocal plural pronoun. Therefore, it applies to the individual or anyone in the assembly.

In Matthew 18:15-20, we find an instance where either of the aforementioned situations could be found, plus a third situation. For example:

If the offending brother repents (confessing his error) when first approached by the offended one, then private prayer between the two should be offered up;

If the offending brother does not confess his error until the witnesses are brought, then prayer should be offered between the few present who are knowledgeable of the situation;

If the brother does not repent and confess his error until the whole church is called upon to intervene, then prayer should be made in the presence of the entire assembly;

Similarly, if the brother repents sometime after he is withdrawn from, then prayer would be made in the presence of the assembly and he is to be welcomed back by all.