Misunderstood Bible Verses With Clark Bates (Part 2) — The Alisa Childers Podcast #28
That's a great question Bob! Thank you for commenting and listening to the podcast!
Regarding the similar passage in Matthew 16:19 I would point a few differences. 1. The address is to an individual, Peter, whereas in 19 it's to a group, the disciples.
2. The content of the address to Peter is the opening of the gates of heaven (i.e. keys), so there is a clear element of leadership or headship, not for discipline, but for sharing the gospel (which you already noted). In Matthew 18 there's no doubt that the context is discipline within the body of Christ.
The use of the same clause in different connects does connect them, but I think the most natural connection is that both involve the agreement of God with those who are his Representatives on Earth.
The unstated assumption in these passages being that these Representatives (Peter, the disciples, etc) are seeking God's will, being steadfast in prayer, and faithful to the teaching of the word.
Hope that helps some.
