1. Discipline & the
Local Church

2. Introduction
That the community of the Local Church can be affected by sin is undeniable
1 It is actually reported that there is immorality among you, and immorality of such a kind as does not exist even among the Gentiles, that someone has his father’s wife...
6 Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough?
1 Corinthians 5:6 (NASB95)

3. 2 Thessalonians 3:6 (NASB95)
Introduction
That the community of the Local Church can be affected by sin is undeniable
6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life and not according to the tradition which you received from us.
2 Thessalonians 3:6 (NASB95)
The Lord commands us to maintain the purity of the Local Church
Discipline is an essential part or our activity as a Local Church

4. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
DEFINING TERMS
“training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character”
Carries dual ideas of “to teach” and “to punish”
Limiting “discipline” to withdrawing fellowship abuses the concept

5. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
5 and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, Nor faint when you are reproved by Him;
Hebrews 12:5 (NASB95)
The discipline of the passage is not the trials themselves but the opportunity afforded by the trials to seek out Divine Wisdom in order to endure the trials

6. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
5 and you have forgotten the exhortation which is addressed to you as sons, “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, Nor faint when you are reproved by Him;
Hebrews 12:5 (NASB95)
16 All Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness;
2 Timothy 3:16 (NASB95)
4 Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.
Ephesians 6:4 (NASB95)

7. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
DEFINING TERMS
What is the discipline of Proverbs 3?
Divine Principles
Divine Understanding
Divine Law
Divine Wisdom
All found through the Word
11 My son, do not reject the discipline of the Lord Or loathe His reproof, 12 For whom the Lord loves He reproves, Even as a father corrects the son in whom he delights.
Proverbs 3:11–12 (NASB95)

8. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
DEFINING TERMS
Does God whip us into obedience?
The Proverb says “correct”
Hebrew term literally means to “reprove...correct ... rebuke” (Strong’s)
6 For those whom the Lord loves He disciplines, And He scourges every son whom He receives.”
Hebrews 12:6 (NASB95)

9. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
Discipline by the Word
7 It is for discipline that you endure; God deals with you as with sons; for what son is there whom his father does not discipline?
Hebrews 12:7 (NASB95)
Trains the mind to deal with trials/temptations etc.
Offers encouragement to the righteous
Offers rebuke for the unrighteous

10. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
Discipline by the Word
Trains the mind to deal with trials/temptations etc.
Offers encouragement to the righteous
Offers rebuke for the unrighteous
11 All discipline for the moment seems not to be joyful, but sorrowful; yet to those who have been trained by it, afterwards it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness.
Hebrews 12:11 (NASB95)
The result of training of the mind through the application of scripture

11. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
Proof of Concept
3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; 4 and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope;
Romans 5:3–4 (NASB95)
Tribulations alone do not accomplish this
The key is faith which comes by hearing the Word
Thus we exult in hope and in tribulations based on our faith in God’s word

12. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
Proof of Concept
2 through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. 3 And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance;
Romans 5:2–3 (NASB95)
Tribulations alone do not accomplish this
The key is faith which comes by hearing the Word
Thus we exult in hope and in tribulations based on our faith in God’s word

13. Discipline - Can We Avoid It?
11 And He gave some as apostles, and some as prophets, and some as evangelists, and some as pastors and teachers, 12 for the equipping of the saints for the work of service, to the building up of the body of Christ; 13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to a mature man, to the measure of the stature which belongs to the fullness of Christ.
Ephesians 4:11–13 (NASB95)
Discipline in a Local Church is seen primarily in the act of instruction, be that teaching, rebuke or correction.

14. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
THE SAVING OF A SOUL
5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:5 (NASB95)
The goal of correction cannot be overlooked
Repentance is the desired end
The goal of correction in every form is the saving of the soul

15. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
THE DESTRUCTION OF THE FLESH
5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:5 (NASB95)
Cannot refer to death
Does not refer to Satan driving a man to God
The idea is to allow the sinner to fully experience the consequences of their sins

16. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
20 Among these are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have handed over to Satan, so that they will be taught not to blaspheme.
1 Timothy 1:20 (NASB95)
5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:5 (NASB95)
24 Therefore God gave them over in the lusts of their hearts to impurity receiving in their own persons the due penalty of their error.
Romans 1:24–27 (NASB95)

17. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
THE SAVING OF A SOUL
“so that” - an adverbial conjunction which indicates purpose or result
This form of discipline is an act of love not hostility
The “harsh” language emphasizes the severity of the sin and situation
5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:5 (NASB95)

18. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
PURITY OF THE CHURCH
6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life and not according to the tradition which you received from us.
2 Thessalonians 3:6 (NASB95)
“command” - “to make an announcement about something that must be done...” (BDAG)
“keep away” (withdraw) - “keep one’s distance, keep away, stand aloof” (BDAG)

19. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
PURITY OF THE CHURCH
14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 (NASB95)
“associate” - “to mix up together...to keep company with, be intimate with one” (Strong’s)

20. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
PURITY OF THE CHURCH
14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 (NASB95)
The language clearly infers the necessity of this withdrawal
“continue to do what we command” (vs. 4)
“now we command you brethren” (vs. 6)

21. The Purpose of Corrective Discipline
PURITY OF THE CHURCH
20 Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.
1 Timothy 5:20 (NASB95)
The language clearly infers the necessity of this withdrawal
No attempt to hide or fellowship sin is in harmony with scripture
Notice again the impact upon the whole church

22. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING INSTRUCTION
12 Therefore, strengthen the hands that are weak and the knees that are feeble, 13 and make straight paths for your feet, so that the limb which is lame may not be put out of joint, but rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:12–13 (NASB95)
The responsibility of instructive discipline falls on every mature member
Individual Saints

23. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING INSTRUCTION
6 In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, constantly nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following.
1 Timothy 4:6 (NASB95)
The responsibility of instructive discipline falls on every mature member
Individual Saints
Preachers

24. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING INSTRUCTION
10 For there are many rebellious men, empty talkers and deceivers, especially those of the circumcision, 11 who must be silenced because they are upsetting whole families, teaching things they should not teach for the sake of sordid gain.
Titus 1:10–11 (NASB95)
The responsibility of instructive discipline falls on every mature member
Individual Saints
Preachers
Elders

25. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING “MARKING”
17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.
Romans 16:17 (NASB95)
If by “mark” we mean declaring one withdrawn from we speak of the responsibility of the elders
(Titus 1:5-11; Acts 20:28; 1Pet. 5:2; Heb 13:17)

26. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING “MARKING”
“mark” in Rom 16 means more than a declaration
“Keep an eye on so as to avoid” (Robertson)
“turn away” or “avoid them” (KJV) demonstrates the force of the term
17 Now I urge you, brethren, keep your eye on those who cause dissensions and hindrances contrary to the teaching which you learned, and turn away from them.
Romans 16:17 (NASB95)

27. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING “MARKING”
4 We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command... 6 Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from every brother who leads an unruly life and not according to the tradition which you received from us.
2 Thessalonians 3:4–6 (NASB95)
vs. 4 - Paul is confident the brethren will obey Apostolic commands
vs. 6 - The command issued is to withdraw from those leading an unruly life

28. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING “MARKING”
11 For we hear that some among you are leading an undisciplined life, doing no work at all, but acting like busybodies But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary of doing good. 14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame.
2 Thessalonians 3:11–14 (NASB95)
vs Some were leading an undisciplined life
vs “but” contrasting the unruly from the spiritual brother
vs “Anyone” both the unruly brother and those who refuse to withdraw themselves

29. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF DISCIPLINE
15 “If your brother sins, go and show him his fault in private; if he listens to you, you have won your brother. 16 “But if he does not listen to you, take one or two more with you, so that by the mouth of two or three witnesses every fact may be confirmed. 17 “If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Matthew 18:15–17 (NASB95)
The disorderly must be warned

30. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF DISCIPLINE
The disorderly must be warned
Diligent effort must be put forth to restore the sinner
1 Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted. 2 Bear one another’s burdens, and thereby fulfill the law of Christ.
Galatians 6:1–2 (NASB95)

31. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF DISCIPLINE
The disorderly must be warned
Diligent effort must be put forth to restore the sinner
If repentance still does not occur fellowship must be withdrawn
14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame.
2 Thessalonians 3:14 (NASB95)

32. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF DISCIPLINE
The disorderly must be warned
Diligent effort must be put forth to restore the sinner
If repentance still does not occur fellowship must be withdrawn
Publicly and Openly
4 In the name of our Lord Jesus, when you are assembled, and I with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus,
1 Corinthians 5:4 (NASB95)
20 Those who continue in sin, rebuke in the presence of all, so that the rest also will be fearful of sinning.
1 Timothy 5:20 (NASB95)

33. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING TREATMENT OF THE UNRULY
As an outsider
With kindness and compassion
With an overriding concern for their sould
Never demonstrating fellowship with them
17 If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if he refuses to listen even to the church, let him be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector.
Matthew 18:17 (NASB95)

34. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING TREATMENT OF THE UNRULY
14 If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of that person and do not associate with him, so that he will be put to shame. 15 Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
2 Thessalonians 3:14–15 (NASB95)
As an outsider
Shun them as far as intimate acquaintance

35. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING TREATMENT OF THE UNRULY
As an outsider
Shun them as far as intimate acquaintance
Allow them to suffer their self-inflicted wounds
5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
1 Corinthians 5:5 (NASB95)

36. The Administration of Corrective Discipline
REGARDING TREATMENT OF THE UNRULY
6 Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority, 7 so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow. 8 Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.
2 Corinthians 2:6–8 (NASB95)
As an outsider
Shun them as far as intimate acquaintance
Allow them to suffer their self-inflicted wounds
Stand ready to forgive!!

37. THE NEW TESTAMENT CHURCH: DISCIPLINE