324 – Discipline in the Church

SEMESTER 2

324 – Discipline in the Church

BIBLE INSTITUTE OF CORRESPONDENCE

COURSE:  ECCLESIOLOGY II LESSON # 24
DISCIPLINE IN THE CHURCH

INTRODUCTION:

1. This subject has been touched briefly in the previous lesson, because of its interrelationship with sin in the church.
2. Church discipline arises out of, and relates to sin in the church and the effect of it within the church.
3. Many today not only shirk this activity but condemn it as being improper conduct for Christians.

I. CHURCH DISCIPLINE A BIBLICAL PRACTICE

1. This truth is thrust upon us by Scripture. (Mat. 18:17, Acts 5:1-11, I Cor. 5:1-13)
2. Whereas we have relatively few Scriptures which give direct command, or account, many imply responsibility such as Rev. 2:14-16, Rev. 2:20, I Cor. 6:1-6)

II. THE PRINCIPLES OF CHURCH DISCIPLINE

1. It is sin (unconfessed and/or unforsaken) that necessitates discipline, therefore only Scripture can determine the events which demand discipline.
2. It is to be done with the good of the offender in mind.
3. It is to be done with the good of the church in mind.
4. It is to be done with justice for the offended (when applicable) in mind.
5. It is to be done in humility, patience and love.
6. It is to be done to provoke to repentance wherever possible.

III. THE TIME FOR CHURCH DISCIPLINE

1. When (in a personal offense) reconciliation has been sought and rejected.

i. In private. (Mat. 18:15)
ii. In the presence of witness. (Mat. 18:16)

2. This principle does not always apply when the offense is not personal.

i. I have seen discipline stalled to the hurt of the church, because the sinner avoided or denied the rebuke described above.
ii. I have seen sin, where no particular person had the grievance, thus the above could not be carried out and discipline was totally frustrated.
iii. The reason is the sin was not personally against anyone in the church and the above did not even apply scripturally.

3. When a sin is discovered that has been repeatedly practiced under­cover, immediate discipline is in order, there are no prerequisites.
4. When one persists in a sin for which they have been repeatedly admonished.
5. When one persists in heresy, (after the first and second ad­monition). (Titus 3:10)
6. When a member unites himself to any heretical group or so-called church.

IV. THE TIME NOT TO DISCIPLINE

1. When the sin is discovered through confession and professed repentance of the sinner.

i. Of course, if this was given only to prevent exposure and retribution, the above would not apply.

2. When the sinner is honestly struggling with his sin, seeking help, prayer and deliverance.
3. When a confronted sinner openly and with professed contrition, confesses and asks forgiveness.
4. When there is no reasonable evidence or corroboration of an accusation and when and if in such a case the accused denies it.

V. THE PURPOSE OF CHURCH DISCIPLINE

1. It is to rebuke the sinner and shame him, hopefully causing him to sorrow unto repentance. (II Thes. 3:14-15)
2. It is to deliver the church from the guilt of sharing his sin by silent consent. (I Cor. 5:4-7, Rev. 2:14-16)
3. It is to state to all men, within and outside the church, that such is not acceptable Christian conduct.