Charles Ellicott Commentary Matthew 18:16

"But if he hear [thee] not, take with thee one or two more, that at the mouth of two witnesses or three every word may be established." — Matthew 18:16 (ASV)

Take with you one or two more — The principle of action is the same as before. The first goal is the reformation of the offender without the scandal of publicity; here, the word “scandal” can be understood in both its older and modern senses. If a personal appeal fails, then the “one or two” are to be called in (Compare to 1 Corinthians 6:5).

It is, of course, implied that these witnesses are not partisans, but impartial representatives of what would likely be the common judgment of the offense. If the goal is achieved through them, the matter is settled. If not, they are then held in reserve for the final stage as witnesses that every effort has been made in the spirit of a righteous friendship.

Just as the previous verse implied a reference to Leviticus 19:17, so this verse refers to Deuteronomy 19:15. This selection of all that was highest and most spiritual in the ethical teaching of the Law is a feature of our Lord’s method that is generally not sufficiently recognized .