SEV Biblia, Chapter 18:20
Porque donde estn dos o tres congregados en mi nombre, allí estoy en medio de ellos.
Clarke's Bible Commentary - Matthew 18:20
Verse 20. For where two-are gathered together in thy name] There are many sayings among the Jews almost exactly similar to this, such as, Wherever even two persons are sitting in discourse concerning the law, the Divine presence is among them. See much more in Schoettgen. And the following, among the ancient Hindoos, is like unto it: "When Brahma, the Lord of creation, had formed mankind, and at the same time appointed his worship, he spoke and said, 'With this worship pray for increase, and let it be that on which ye shall depend for the accomplishment of all your wishes. With this remember God, that God may remember you. Remember one another, and ye shall obtain supreme happiness. God, being remembered in worship, will grant you the enjoyment of your wishes: he who enjoyeth what hath been given unto him by God, and offereth not a portion unto him, is even as a thief. Know that good works come from Brahma, whose nature is incorruptible; wherefore, the omnipresent Brahma is PRESENT IN THE WORSHIP." See the Bagvat Geeta, p. 45, 46. In my name] Seems to refer particularly to a public profession of Christ and his Gospel.
There am I in the midst] None but God could say these words, to say them with truth, because God alone is every where present, and these words refer to his omnipresence. Wherever- suppose millions of assemblies were collected in the same moment, in different places of the creation, (which is a very possible case,) this promise states that Jesus is in each of them. Can any, therefore, say these words, except that God who fills both heaven and earth? But Jesus says these words: ergo-Jesus is God. Let it be observed, that Jesus is not among them to spy out their sins; or to mark down the imperfections of their worship; but to enlighten, strengthen, comfort, and save them.
John Gill's Bible Commentary
Ver. 20. For where two or three are gathered together , etc.] This seems to be said in opposition to a Jewish notion, that a number less than ten, is not a congregation f1012 ; whereas, though the number is ever so few that are met together to pray to God; or to hear his word, attend on his ordinances, or do the business of his house, or transact any affair that is for the glory of God, and the good of souls, in my name, says Christ; that is, by his authority, depending on his assistance, calling upon his name, and making use of it, and seeking the glory of it: there am I in the midst of them ; presiding over them, ruling in their hearts, directing their counsels, assisting them in all they are concerned, confirming what they do, and giving a blessing and success to all they are engaged in. The Jews, though they say there is no congregation less than ten, yet own that the divine presence may be with a lesser number, even as small an one as here mentioned f1013 . Ten that sit and study in the law, the Shechaniah dwells among them, as it is said, ( Psalm 82:1). From whence does this appear, if but five? from ( Amos 9:6), from whence, if but three? from ( Psalm 82:1), from whence, if but two? from ( Malachi 3:16), from whence, if but one? from ( Exodus 20:24).
And again f1014 , two that sit together, and the words of the law are between them, the Shechaniah dwells among them, according to ( Malachi 3:16), from whence does it appear, that if but one sits and studies in the law, the holy blessed God hath fixed a reward for him? from ( Lamentations 3:28).
Matthew Henry Commentary
Verses 15-20 - If a professed Christian is wronged by another, he ought not to complain of it to others, as is often done merely upon report, but to go to the offender privately, state the matter kindly, and show him his conduct. This would generally have all the desired effect with a tru Christian, and the parties would be reconciled. The principles of thes rules may be practised every where, and under all circumstances, thoug they are too much neglected by all. But how few try the method whic Christ has expressly enjoined to all his disciples! In all ou proceedings we should seek direction in prayer; we cannot too highl prize the promises of God. Wherever and whenever we meet in the name of Christ, we should consider him as present in the midst of us.
Greek Textus Receptus
ου 3757 ADV γαρ 1063 CONJ εισιν 1526 5748 V-PXI-3P δυο 1417 A-NUI η 2228 PRT τρεις 5140 A-NPM συνηγμενοι 4863 5772 V-RPP-NPM εις 1519 PREP το 3588 T-ASN εμον 1699 S-1ASN ονομα 3686 N-ASN εκει 1563 ADV ειμι 1510 5748 V-PXI-1S εν 1722 PREP μεσω 3319 A-DSN αυτων 846 P-GPM
Vincent's NT Word Studies
20. In my name (eiv to emon onoma). Lit., "into my name." When two or three are drawn together into Christ as the common center of their desire and faith.
Robertson's NT Word Studies
18:20 {There am I} (ekei eimi). this blessed promise implies that those gathered together are really disciples with the spirit of Christ as well as "in his name" (eis to emon onoma). One of the Oxyrhynchus _Sayings of Our Lord_ is: "Wherever there are (two) they are not without God, and wherever there is one alone I say I am with him." Also this : "Raise the stone and there thou shalt find me, cleave the wood and there am I." See #Mal 3:16.
