“Restoring the Wandering Sheep: Why Confrontation Is a Form of Love”

1. Introduction: Conflict Is Inevitable, But It Doesn’t Have to Divide

Open with a short anecdote or question:

“Have you ever been hurt in church? Offended by a leader’s tone or a fellow believer’s actions? Jesus expected it—and He gave us the steps to handle it.”

Highlight that this message is rooted in Matthew 18, which gives a clear framework for how we handle conflict and sin within the body of Christ.

2. Kingdom Culture: Humility First, Always

Discuss Matthew 18:1–5:

• Emphasize that humility is the gateway to the kingdom.

• In the church, we’re called to relate as children—innocent, dependent, and receptive.

"Before you ever confront, Jesus calls you to humble yourself as a little child."

3. The Danger of Causing Others to Stumble

Verses 6–9:

• Stress the severe warnings Jesus gives to those who discourage or mislead new believers.

• Use examples of legalism, gossip, and harsh correction that pushes people away from Christ.

4. Jesus Pursues the One Who Strays—So Should We

Matthew 18:10–14:

• The parable of the lost sheep shows the value of each person in the kingdom.

• Make the case: Church discipline is about restoration, not rejection.

5. The 3-Step Restoration Process

Matthew 18:15–17:

• Step 1: Go alone.

• Step 2: Go with 1 or 2 witnesses.

• Step 3: Bring it to the church.

Clearly outline:

• The purpose: Reconciliation, not punishment.

• The attitude: Goodness and knowledge (Romans 15).

• The goal: To gain your brother back.

"Love doesn’t ignore sin. Love seeks restoration."

6. What Happens When Someone Refuses Correction?

• Explain the meaning of “treat them as a heathen or tax collector”: not rejection, but evangelistic distance.

• Highlight the role of the church in declaring discipline with Jesus' authority (vv. 18–20).

7. Examples in Scripture: Peter & Paul, Ananias & Sapphira

Draw from:

• Galatians 2: Paul rebukes Peter—yet Peter later calls Paul “beloved brother.”

• Acts 5: Church purity mattered so much that God judged hypocrisy instantly.

8. Conclusion: Restoration Is Always the Goal

Tie everything back to Christ’s love and the health of His church.

• Encourage believers to forgive, confront humbly, and pursue peace.

Include your challenge:

Before the Lord’s Table, seek reconciliation. Forgive. Go. Restore.