1. DISCIPLINE

2. INTRODUCTION  In the NASB, the word “discipline” occurs 37 times in 36 Bible verses.

3. CONTRASTING MEANINGS  The English word “discipline” is defined as:  PUNISHMENT  obsolete: INSTRUCTION  a field of study  training that corrects, molds, or perfects the mental faculties or moral character;  control gained by enforcing obedience or order; orderly or prescribed conduct or pattern of behavior; SELF- CONTROL  a rule or system of rules governing conduct or activity.

4. CONTRASTING MEANINGS  Various Hebrew and Greek words are used in the Bible to communicate similar meanings:  Exercise or training of the body  Instruction or training of a child  Self-discipline  Disciplined or orderly behavior  Punishment or correction

5. CONTRASTING APPLICATIONS  The discipline of men may be demanding but just, as reflected in the reign of Solomon, or cruel and unjust, as observed in the threats of Rehoboam (1 Kings 12:1-15, esp. vs. 11 & 14; cf. 2 Chron. 10:11, 14).

6. CONTRASTING APPLICATIONS  The discipline of men may be well intentioned but potentially flawed; in contrast, the discipline of God is always appropriate and perfectly administered (Heb. 12:4-11).  Divine discipline is manifested through God’s power, precepts and providential care (Deut. 4:32- 40; 11:1-7; cf. Job 5:17-18).

7. CONTRASTING REACTIONS  Foolish men reject discipline (Psa. 50:16-21; Prov. 13:18; 15:5-6, 31-33; 19:27).  Because they do not learn from their own mistakes, “the discipline of fools is folly” (Prov. 16:22).  Such spiritual dullness is evident in those who are promiscuous (Prov. 7:21-23), and in drunkards (Prov. 23:29-35).

8. CONTRASTING REACTIONS  Additionally, men may devote themselves to religious systems, which may be demanding, but wholly false and futile (Jer. 10:6-16; Col. 2:20-23).

9. CONTRASTING REACTIONS  Wise men accept discipline (Prov. 3:11-18; 13:1).  Accordingly, they enjoy the benefits/blessings of discipline (Prov. 6:20-23; 12:1; 19:20).

10. CONTRASTING REACTIONS  Wise fathers will administer suitable discipline; wise children will accept the same, leading in time to self-discipline (Prov. 23:12-14; 19:18; 22:15; 23:13; Eph. 6:4).

11. CONTRASTING REACTIONS  In like manner, disciples of Christ should evidence self-discipline (1 Cor. 9:24-27) and spiritual discipline (1 Tim. 4:7-10), freely submitting to the instructive and corrective discipline of the Lord (Col. 2:1-7; 2 Tim. 1:6-7; Rev. 3:14-22).

12. CONCLUSION  Thanks be to God for His divine love, and also His divine discipline.  May our response to the discipline of the Lord reflect a spirit of humility rather than arrogance.  May we manifest wisdom that makes proper application, rather than folly that rejects the same.