Discipline
Summary
The application of rules for order and purity in the Christian church, including both the spiritual training of believers and ecclesiastical correction of offenders.
☩Biblical Basis
The first rule of discipline appears in Matthew 18:15-17: private reproof, then witnesses, then the church, and finally exclusion. Paul illustrates apostolic discipline in the case of the incestuous Corinthian, whom he excommunicated 'in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.' The aims are first the reformation of the offender, and failing that, the purification of the church. The exercise of discipline brought the incestuous man to penitence, and Paul urged restoration with forgiveness and comfort.
☩Spiritual Discipline
God disciplines His children as a wise father, developing and perfecting their moral nature through trials and chastenings. The Author of Salvation was Himself made perfect through sufferings, so the 'many sons' must pass through similar experiences. Christians must also discipline themselves, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, crucifying the lower nature to rise into newness of life. Prayer, watchfulness, obedience, and patience are essential elements of this self-discipline.
☩Ecclesiastical Practice
Church discipline includes reproof, censure, suspension, and excommunication. Its object is to prevent scandal and restore the offender. In the early church, the action of the laity was required in disciplinary proceedings, but bishops gradually assumed control. The godly discipline of the church distinguishes it from the world and maintains its witness to holiness.
Related Verses1 mention
Job· 1 verse
See Also
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Discipline," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. II (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Hastings (ed.), "Discipline," in Dictionary of the Apostolic Church, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1915–1918).
- 3.James Hastings (ed.), "Discipline," in Dictionary of Christ and the Gospels, vol. I (T. & T. Clark, 1906–1908).