What does the Bible say about discipline of the church?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that Christ has entrusted his church with loving, orderly discipline to guard its holiness, restore the wandering, and honor his name. Matthew 16:19 and Matthew 18:18 describe the church's authority as it faithfully applies Christ's Word, while 1 Corinthians 5:3-5, 13 shows that persistent, public, unrepentant sin may require removal from fellowship for the sinner's ultimate good. Leaders must rebuke false teaching and sin soundly and impartially, as Titus 1:13, 1 Timothy 5:20, and 2 Timothy 4:2 teach. Such discipline is not harsh control but pastoral obedience, carried out with truth, patience, due process, and the aim of repentance and restoration.
Study outline
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Torrey's New Topical Textbook
- Ministers authorised to establish Matthew 16:19; Matthew 18:18
- Consists in
- Maintaining sound doctrine 1 Timothy 1:3; Titus 1:13
- Ordering its affairs 1 Corinthians 11:34; Titus 1:5
- Rebuking offenders 1 Timothy 5:20; 2 Timothy 4:2
- Removing obstinate offenders 1 Corinthians 5:3-5; 1 Corinthians 5:13; 1 Timothy 1:20
- Should be submitted to Hebrews 13:17
- Is for edification 2 Corinthians 10:8; 2 Corinthians 13:10
- Decency and order, the objects of 1 Corinthians 14:40
- Exercise, in a spirit of charity 1 Corinthians 2:6-8
- Prohibits women preaching 1 Corinthians 14:34; 1 Timothy 2:12
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