Matthew 18:17
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.
Original Language Analysis
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
1 of 21
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
παρακούσῃ
he neglect to hear
G3878
παρακούσῃ
he neglect to hear
Strong's:
G3878
Word #:
3 of 21
to mishear, i.e., (by implication) to disobey
αὐτῶν
them
G846
αὐτῶν
them
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
4 of 21
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
τῇ
G3588
τῇ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκκλησίας
it unto the church
G1577
ἐκκλησίας
it unto the church
Strong's:
G1577
Word #:
7 of 21
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
ἐὰν
if
G1437
ἐὰν
if
Strong's:
G1437
Word #:
8 of 21
a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
10 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τῆς
G3588
τῆς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
11 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκκλησίας
it unto the church
G1577
ἐκκλησίας
it unto the church
Strong's:
G1577
Word #:
12 of 21
a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth
παρακούσῃ
he neglect to hear
G3878
παρακούσῃ
he neglect to hear
Strong's:
G3878
Word #:
13 of 21
to mishear, i.e., (by implication) to disobey
ἔστω
let him be
G2077
ἔστω
let him be
Strong's:
G2077
Word #:
14 of 21
be thou; also ??????? <pronunciation strongs="es'-to-san"/>, third person of the same; let them be
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
17 of 21
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐθνικὸς
an heathen man
G1482
ἐθνικὸς
an heathen man
Strong's:
G1482
Word #:
18 of 21
national ("ethnic"), i.e., (specially) a gentile
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
19 of 21
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
Cross References
2 Thessalonians 3:6Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.Ezekiel 11:12And ye shall know that I am the LORD: for ye have not walked in my statutes, neither executed my judgments, but have done after the manners of the heathen that are round about you.
Historical 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.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
- What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
- How should you share this truth with others?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & 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.