The Fraternal Reconciliation and Forgiveness in Mt 18

Abstract

This article presents the literary type behind the pericopes on fraternal correction and forgiveness in Mt 18. In the Old Testament, there are two ways of reestablishing communion in community life: mišpaṭ and rîb. Both are applied in the reading of the Community Discourse and compared with other arguments present in the five Discourses of Matthew. After that, it is analyzed which one is the most significant for Mt 18 and for the evangelist’s theology. This research concludes that the rîb is behind the practical indications in the Community Discourse, allowing a new understanding of fraternal correction, forgiveness, the way Jesus and God act in Matthew and the role of the community. These contributions are important, since community life, in its broadest definitions, is essential to our society. Thus, it is possible to understand how to practice the Heavenly Father’s desire that none of the little ones be lost.

KEYWORDS: Rîb. Mišpaṭ. Community Discourse. Matthew’s Theology. Reconciliation.