King James Version

What Does Matthew 18:17 Mean?

Matthew 18:17 in the King James Version says “And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto the... — study this verse from Matthew chapter 18 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

Matthew 18:17 · KJV


Context

15

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.

16

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

17

And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as an heathen man and a publican.

18

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

19

Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 21 words
ἐὰν1 of 21

if

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

δὲ2 of 21

And

G1161

but, and, etc

παρακούσῃ3 of 21

he neglect to hear

G3878

to mishear, i.e., (by implication) to disobey

αὐτῶν4 of 21

them

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

εἰπὲ5 of 21

tell

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

τῇ6 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐκκλησίας7 of 21

it unto the church

G1577

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

ἐὰν8 of 21

if

G1437

a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty

δὲ9 of 21

And

G1161

but, and, etc

καὶ10 of 21

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

τῆς11 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐκκλησίας12 of 21

it unto the church

G1577

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

παρακούσῃ13 of 21

he neglect to hear

G3878

to mishear, i.e., (by implication) to disobey

ἔστω14 of 21

let him be

G2077

be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be

σοι15 of 21

unto thee

G4671

to thee

ὥσπερ16 of 21

as

G5618

just as, i.e., exactly like

17 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐθνικὸς18 of 21

an heathen man

G1482

national ("ethnic"), i.e., (specially) a gentile

καὶ19 of 21

and

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

20 of 21
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

τελώνης21 of 21

a publican

G5057

a tax-farmer, i.e., collector of public revenue


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 18:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 18:17 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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