Heavenly Impact

Passage:  Matthew 18:15-20

Points:

1.  Point out in private when someone sins against you.

2.  Whatever we bind or loose on earth will be bound and loosed in heaven.

3.  Where two or three gather in Christ name, he will be with them.

Personalize:

We learn in this passage that reconciliation is important among brothers and sisters in Christ.  When wrong has been done, it is important that we move quickly to bring about reconciliation.  This reconciliation is important in our relationship and our relationship with our heavenly Father.  The passage lets us know that if an individual refuses repentance he is to be treated as a pagan, as one who is without Christ.  Repentance and reconciliation is very important in our earthly and heavenly relations.

“Whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven…”  We need to come to the realization that our earthly decisions will make a heavenly impact as well.  What we sow on earth we will also reap now and in eternity.  This eternal perspective will give a present importance to the relationships and life we live today.  What we do today will make a heavenly impact tomorrow.  May we bind up good things on earth so we may reap good things in the future.

Relationships are important in the kingdom.  “Where two or three are gathered in my name there I am with them.”  Jesus promises to be present when we are present with others with the desire to worship and honor him.  Reconciliation keeps our relationships open and vibrant so we may work together in exalting Christ in our times together.  Our union and worship together makes a heavenly impact.  Jesus is present in our midst.

Prayer:

Lord may we seek unity and reconciliation.  May our times together create an environment that will welcome you in our midst.  When we sin against others or others sin against us, may we seek reconciliation, so you may be exalted above our own pride.  Lord be exalted in our midst and may our relationships make a heavenly impact.