The topic of church discipline is probably the most neglected topic in the Bible. It is neglected both when it comes to being studied and carried out. It is a topic that is often met with resistance among the family of God.
And yet, the topic challenges us in a variety of different ways. It challenges our trust in God. Do we believe that God’s way is the best? It challenges our love for God (John 14:15). It challenges our love for one another.
Church discipline is promoted in the Bible.
- Jesus gives clear instructions for it in Matthew 18:15-17. Go to the brother in private (vs. 15). Take one or two more (vs. 16). Bring the matter before the church (vs. 17a). No longer count him among the faithful (vs. 17b).
- The Apostle Paul teaches on the subject several times in the New Testament (Romans 16:16-17; 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14; 1 Corinthians 5:1-2, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13).
Church discipline is not easy.
- It is not easy to confront someone with sin (Matthew 18:15-16).
- The third and fourth steps often come at the end of a long process. Usually, the process involves judgment from the leaders. We need always to be mindful of Hebrews 13:17.
- This can be a complicated and sensitive matter for a local church.
Church discipline is an act of love.
- Why do parents discipline their children? Because they hate them and want to make their lives miserable? Or because they love and want to help them have a great future?
- Real love for a brother involves taking notice when he falls into sin. It involves confronting him with his sin (Galatians 2:11-14) and being willing to pull back fellowship from him until he repents (Matthew 18:17).
Church discipline is not to be our final act.
- Even after a sinful brother is “withdrawn” from, there is more that God wants us to do (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15). We are not to give up entirely on him!
- The goal of this process is to save a soul (1 Corinthians 5:5).
Conclusion:
Do you trust God’s plan?
