Some Cheesecake for You

Today, I read Matthew chapter 18. I got some really good and thought-provoking things out of it so I thought that I would share. Keep in mind, that this is Jesus talking.

verse 7

"Woe to the world because of the things that cause people to sin! Such things must come, but woe to the man through whom they come!"

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verses 15-17

"If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault, just between the two of you. If he listens to you, you have won your brother over. But if he will not listen, take one or two others along, so that 'every matter may be established by the testimony of two or three witnesses.'If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector."

Very interesting passage. The things that gets me is the last part "...if he refuses to listen even to the church, treat him as you would a pagan or a tax collector." How is that??? I'm trying to think of how they treated those people back in the day this was said. From what I know, no one liked tax collectors because they often took too much. But I'm not sure how they treated them exactly. It obviously doesn't sound like it's a treatment anyone would want. Anyone have any knowledge on this topic?

It's important to note that we're supposed to go alone when we first go and show him his sin. That way, if he listens, you don't have to embarrass him in front of others. But sometimes you have to do something like that (as the passage says).

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Here is an encouraging verse

Verses 19 & 20

"Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them."

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And here is a passage from Jeremiah 1:19. This is also very encouraging.

They will fight against you but will not overcome you, for I am with you and will rescue you," declares the LORD.

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I hope that this post was edifying--any thoughts?