Matthew 18:20

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

For {G1063} where {G3757} two {G1417} or {G2228} three {G5140} are {G1526} gathered together {G4863} in {G1519} my {G1699} name {G3686}, there {G1563} am I {G1510} in {G1722} the midst {G3319} of them {G846}.

For wherever two or three are assembled in my name, I am there with them."

For where two or three gather together in My name, there am I with them.”

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

Matthew 18:20 is a profoundly comforting and encouraging verse, often quoted in the context of Christian gatherings and prayer meetings. It assures believers of Christ's active presence when they come together in His name.

Context of Matthew 18:20

This verse is part of a larger discourse by Jesus in Matthew chapter 18 concerning life within the community of believers. The preceding verses (Matthew 18:15-19) address themes of church discipline, reconciliation, and the power of corporate prayer. Specifically, verse 19 speaks of two or three agreeing in prayer, and verse 20 serves as a powerful affirmation of why such agreement is effective: because Jesus Himself is present. It highlights the spiritual authority and intimate presence granted to the assembled body of believers, not just in matters of discipline, but in any gathering focused on Him. For a deeper understanding of the preceding discussion on prayer, see Matthew 18:19.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Presence of Christ: The primary message is Jesus' promise to be "in the midst" of His followers when they gather. This isn't merely a symbolic presence but a real, active, and empowering one, signifying His direct involvement in their fellowship, worship, and prayers.
  • Corporate Prayer and Fellowship: While often applied broadly to any Christian gathering, the immediate context emphasizes the power and significance of communal prayer and decision-making within the church. It underscores the importance of not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together.
  • Unity and Agreement: The mention of "two or three" implies a need for unity and a common purpose. It's not just about numerical presence, but about gathering in His name, reflecting a shared devotion and intention centered on Christ. This echoes the importance of unity found elsewhere, such as in 1 Corinthians 1:10.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "in my name" (Greek: eis to emon onoma) is crucial. It means more than just uttering the name of Jesus. It implies gathering under His authority, according to His character, for His purposes, and in alignment with His will. It signifies a gathering that truly represents Him and His Kingdom values. When believers pray or act "in His name," they are doing so as His representatives, with His backing and authority. This concept is foundational to understanding Christian prayer and action, as seen in Jesus' teachings on praying in His name in John 14:13.

Practical Application

Matthew 18:20 offers immense encouragement for believers today:

  • For Small Groups and Prayer Meetings: It assures that even a small gathering of believers has the full presence of Christ, making every meeting significant, regardless of size.
  • For Personal Encouragement: Knowing that Christ is present when we gather provides comfort, strength, and confidence in the power of corporate worship and intercession.
  • For Church Authority: In its original context, it affirms the authority Christ bestows upon His church in matters of discipline and spiritual discernment, ensuring His guidance in difficult decisions.
  • For Evangelism and Discipleship: When believers meet to study His Word, pray, or share the Gospel, they do so with the assurance that Jesus is actively with them, empowering their efforts.

This verse is a cornerstone for understanding the value and power of Christian community, emphasizing that the focus is always on Christ Himself, the true head of the Church.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 5:4

    In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

  • Revelation 21:3

    And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God [is] with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, [and be] their God.

  • Matthew 28:20

    Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.

  • Zechariah 2:5

    For I, saith the LORD, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her.

  • John 20:26

    ¶ And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: [then] came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace [be] unto you.

  • John 20:19

    ¶ Then the same day at evening, being the first [day] of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace [be] unto you.

  • Revelation 2:1

    Unto the angel of the church of Ephesus write; These things saith he that holdeth the seven stars in his right hand, who walketh in the midst of the seven golden candlesticks;

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