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.
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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;
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
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:
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.