Fellowship
Peter, Paul and Mary’s son
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For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.
Matthew 18:20 (ESV)
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First, a little context:
Jesus spoke this as an encouragement for those who are in the midst of conflict resolution. He’s giving them power and authority to sternly handle conflict with a fellow believer who refuses to repent of their sin.
All right, that’s important.
Now, often we use this verse as encouragement for small group gatherings.
But that’s kind of strange because we already have the Holy Spirit dwelling within us. And if that’s the case, then any time I’m anywhere by myself, God is with me.
The key phrase here is “in my name.”
We say and do things in the name of Jesus whenever we want to lean into the power and authority of Christ.
This happens in the early church when Peter heals people in the name of Christ. Or when Paul heals people and casts out demons in the name of Christ.
Neither Peter nor Paul do those miracles in their own power & authority.
Because they have none.
They do these miraculous works through the power of Christ.
To be honest, I’m not sure I’d have the confidence to do miracles like that. I’d have to almost see a neon sign telling me to take courage and lean into the Spirit’s leading in order to attempt something like that.
I don’t think God has ever called me to attempt a miracle like that.
But I do know that I get to walk with the Spirit every day, and He’s always available for me when I face anything in life …
Which is its own miracle.
— Ricky Ketchum
Copyright © 2025 by Ricky Ketchum. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication prohibited.
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