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Matthew 18:16

Made Simple — Modern English Translation

Translated by Verse Made Simple Editorial
KJV ORIGINAL
But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.
Close to the original. Clear modern English.
✦ MADE SIMPLE

But if they won't listen to you, bring one or two other people with you. That way, everything that's said has backup from multiple witnesses.

⚡ THE BOTTOM LINE

Sometimes you need witnesses to make sure the truth actually gets heard.

📚 Historical Context

In the biblical narrative, Jesus is addressing his disciples about resolving conflicts within the early Christian community, as part of a broader teaching on church discipline in Matthew 18. This verse draws from Old Testament principles, such as Deuteronomy 19:15, which required multiple witnesses to establish the truth in legal matters to prevent false accusations. During the first century in Jewish culture, this practice was commonplace for ensuring fairness and accountability in disputes.

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