Restoring Relationships Through Biblical Church Discipline
Summary
Church discipline, as outlined in Matthew 18:15-20, is a vital aspect of maintaining a biblical church. It is not a punitive measure but a loving process aimed at restoring individuals to a right relationship with God and the church community. Every member of the church is called to participate in this process, recognizing that sin affects not only the individual but the entire body of Christ. The goal is not perfection but a collective pursuit of Christlikeness, where each person denies themselves, takes up their cross, and follows Jesus.
Jesus commands spiritual discipline because He knows our tendency to stray like sheep. Without discipline, a church becomes a collection of individuals pursuing their own paths rather than a unified body under Christ. The process begins with a private confrontation of sin, emphasizing the importance of addressing issues directly and lovingly. If the individual does not repent, the matter is escalated to involve more witnesses and, if necessary, the entire church. This is not to shame but to encourage repentance and reconciliation.
The authority of the church, as given by Christ, is to bind and loose, meaning to declare someone forgiven or unforgiven based on their repentance. This authority is not to be taken lightly, as it reflects the heavenly reality. The church's role is to declare God's truth, administer the ordinances, and exercise discipline, ensuring that the name of Christ is honored and the gospel is proclaimed.
In a world where spiritual discipline is increasingly rare, it is crucial for the church to uphold these biblical principles. This is not only for the purity of the church but for the sake of the gospel and the glory of Christ. We must lead others to freedom in Christ, calling sinners to repentance both inside and outside the church. The name of Christ is at stake, and we must be diligent in our responsibility to declare His truth.
Key Takeaways
- The Necessity of Church Discipline: Church discipline is essential for maintaining the purity and unity of the church. It is a loving process aimed at restoring individuals to a right relationship with God and the community. Without it, the church risks becoming a collection of individuals pursuing their own paths rather than a unified body under Christ. [01:03]
- The Process of Restoration: The process of church discipline begins with a private confrontation of sin, emphasizing direct and loving communication. If the individual does not repent, the matter is escalated to involve more witnesses and, if necessary, the entire church. This is not to shame but to encourage repentance and reconciliation. [10:00]
- Authority of the Church: The church has the authority, given by Christ, to bind and loose, meaning to declare someone forgiven or unforgiven based on their repentance. This authority reflects the heavenly reality and is not to be taken lightly. It underscores the church's role in declaring God's truth and administering discipline. [35:33]
- The Role of the Church in Declaring Truth: The church's role is to declare God's truth, administer the ordinances, and exercise discipline. This ensures that the name of Christ is honored and the gospel is proclaimed. Without spiritual discipline, the church's declaration of the gospel diminishes. [39:38]
- Leading Others to Freedom in Christ: We must lead others to freedom in Christ, calling sinners to repentance both inside and outside the church. The name of Christ is at stake, and we must be diligent in our responsibility to declare His truth. This is not only for the purity of the church but for the sake of the gospel and the glory of Christ. [48:53]
Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:03] - Introduction to Church Discipline
[02:26] - The Need for Spiritual Discipline
[03:44] - Christ as Our Standard
[04:56] - The Narrow Way Mission
[05:55] - Steps of Church Discipline
[07:28] - Freedom Through Discipline
[08:49] - The Parable of the Lost Sheep
[10:00] - Step One: Private Confrontation
[11:36] - The Cadet Honor Code Illustration
[13:54] - Living Coram Deo
[15:19] - The Cleansing Power of Repentance
[16:57] - Step Two: Bringing Witnesses
[18:23] - The Role of Witnesses
[20:03] - Step Three: Telling the Church
[21:30] - The Goal of Reconciliation
[22:33] - Step Four: Treating as a Gentile
[23:40] - Paul's Instructions in Corinthians
[24:58] - Relating to the Disfellowshipped
[26:09] - The Importance of Reconciliation
[27:24] - Understanding Reviler
[29:03] - The Biblical Response
[30:26] - The Role of Spiritual Discipline
[31:35] - Discipleship and Evangelism
[32:44] - Living Psalm 23:1
[33:55] - The Reality of Church Discipline
[35:33] - Church Authority Explained
[36:44] - The Role of the Church
[38:40] - The Three Fundamentals of a Church
[39:38] - The Church's Role in Declaring Truth
[40:57] - Understanding Matthew 18:20
[41:59] - The Importance of Spiritual Discipline
[43:39] - Exercising Biblical Discipline
[45:01] - The Process of Confrontation
[46:35] - The Challenge of Confrontation
[47:41] - The Consequences of Ignoring Discipline
[48:53] - The Importance of Repentance
[49:35] - Conclusion and Call to Repentance
[50:36] - The Good News of Salvation
[51:23] - Invitation to Join the Church
[52:54] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide: Church Discipline
Bible Reading:
- Matthew 18:15-20
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Observation Questions:
1. According to Matthew 18:15-20, what are the steps outlined for addressing a brother's sin within the church? How does this process begin? [05:55]
2. What is the significance of the church's authority to "bind and loose" as mentioned in Matthew 18:18? How does this reflect the heavenly reality? [35:33]
3. In the sermon, how is the parable of the lost sheep used to illustrate God's concern for individuals within the church? [08:49]
4. What role do witnesses play in the process of church discipline, and why is their presence important? [18:23]
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the process of church discipline reflect the character of God as a loving shepherd seeking to restore His sheep? [08:49]
2. What might be the consequences for a church that neglects to practice biblical discipline as outlined in Matthew 18? [30:26]
3. How does the authority given to the church to "bind and loose" challenge or affirm your understanding of church leadership and accountability? [35:33]
4. In what ways does the sermon suggest that church discipline is essential for the purity and unity of the church? [49:35]
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you witnessed or were part of a church discipline process. How did it align with the steps outlined in Matthew 18:15-20? What was the outcome? [05:55]
2. How can you personally contribute to maintaining the purity and unity of your church community? Are there specific actions you can take to support this process? [49:35]
3. Consider the role of witnesses in church discipline. How can you prepare yourself to be a supportive and loving witness if called upon? [18:23]
4. The sermon emphasizes the importance of leading others to freedom in Christ. Identify one person in your life who may need encouragement or guidance. How can you lovingly support them in their spiritual journey? [48:53]
5. How does understanding the church's authority to "bind and loose" influence your view of church membership and accountability? What steps can you take to align yourself with this biblical principle? [35:33]
6. Reflect on the parable of the lost sheep. Is there someone in your church community who has gone astray? How can you reach out to them in love and encourage their return? [08:49]
7. The sermon mentions the importance of living "Coram Deo" (in the presence of God). What practical steps can you take this week to live more consciously in God's presence, both privately and publicly? [13:54]
Devotional
I'm ready to provide the 5-day devotional based on the steps outlined. Here it is:
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Day 1: The Loving Necessity of Church Discipline
Church discipline is essential for maintaining the purity and unity of the church. It is not a punitive measure but a loving process aimed at restoring individuals to a right relationship with God and the community. Without it, the church risks becoming a collection of individuals pursuing their own paths rather than a unified body under Christ. This discipline is a collective responsibility, where each member is called to participate, recognizing that sin affects not only the individual but the entire body of Christ. The goal is not perfection but a collective pursuit of Christlikeness, where each person denies themselves, takes up their cross, and follows Jesus. [01:03]
Hebrews 12:11-13 (ESV): "For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it. Therefore lift your drooping hands and strengthen your weak knees, and make straight paths for your feet, so that what is lame may not be put out of joint but rather be healed."
Reflection: Is there an area in your life where you have resisted correction? How can you open your heart to the loving discipline of God and your church community today?
Day 2: The Process of Restoration
The process of church discipline begins with a private confrontation of sin, emphasizing direct and loving communication. If the individual does not repent, the matter is escalated to involve more witnesses and, if necessary, the entire church. This is not to shame but to encourage repentance and reconciliation. The steps are designed to be redemptive, aiming to bring the individual back into fellowship with God and the community. This process reflects the heart of God, who desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance. [10:00]
Galatians 6:1-2 (ESV): "Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ."
Reflection: Think of a relationship where you need to address a wrongdoing. How can you approach this person with love and a spirit of restoration today?
Day 3: The Authority of the Church
The church has the authority, given by Christ, to bind and loose, meaning to declare someone forgiven or unforgiven based on their repentance. This authority reflects the heavenly reality and is not to be taken lightly. It underscores the church's role in declaring God's truth and administering discipline. The church is entrusted with the responsibility to uphold the truth of the gospel and to ensure that the name of Christ is honored. This authority is exercised with humility and a deep sense of responsibility, knowing that it mirrors the authority of heaven. [35:33]
Matthew 16:19 (ESV): "I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."
Reflection: How do you view the authority of your church leaders? In what ways can you support them in their role of upholding the truth and administering discipline?
Day 4: The Church's Role in Declaring Truth
The church's role is to declare God's truth, administer the ordinances, and exercise discipline. This ensures that the name of Christ is honored and the gospel is proclaimed. Without spiritual discipline, the church's declaration of the gospel diminishes. The church is called to be a beacon of truth in a world that often rejects it, standing firm in the teachings of Christ and leading others to the freedom found in Him. This role is vital for the purity of the church and the effectiveness of its witness to the world. [39:38]
1 Timothy 3:15 (ESV): "If I delay, you may know how one ought to behave in the household of God, which is the church of the living God, a pillar and buttress of the truth."
Reflection: In what ways can you contribute to your church's mission of declaring God's truth? How can you be a pillar of truth in your own community?
Day 5: Leading Others to Freedom in Christ
We must lead others to freedom in Christ, calling sinners to repentance both inside and outside the church. The name of Christ is at stake, and we must be diligent in our responsibility to declare His truth. This is not only for the purity of the church but for the sake of the gospel and the glory of Christ. As followers of Christ, we are called to be ambassadors of His grace, extending the invitation of salvation to all and living lives that reflect His love and truth. [48:53]
2 Corinthians 5:20-21 (ESV): "Therefore, we are ambassadors for Christ, God making his appeal through us. We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God. For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God."
Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the message of freedom in Christ? How can you be an ambassador of His grace to them today?
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Quotes
1) "We, as followers of Christ, must lead others to Christ. We must lead people to freedom. We don't want to keep people in bondage, keep people lost. That is an unbiblical, un Christ like thing to do. So we all have a responsibility here for direct application to God's word here. So, before we read these verses, I want to ask the question, why does Jesus make these commands? Why does Jesus make us do spiritual discipline? Because he knows his sheep, right? He knows, according to Isaiah 53 six, Romans 323, that all have fallen short of the glory of God and that we have, all, we all, like sheep, have gone astray. Every single one of us have turned to our own way." [02:26] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2) "The goal here for our church is not perfection. We're all trying to live under the forgiveness and the mercy of God. We need to become more like Christ. Christ is the standard. We must fix our eyes on him. As we read earlier in Hebrews twelve, Jesus humbled himself from the throne of heaven. Where did we come from? We came from Dustin. Jesus lived 33 years of righteous living. You and I can't go two minutes without sinning. Jesus suffered affliction from sinners, sinners who were provided authority to inflict suffering upon our savior. Jesus suffered that, and we can't even imagine. We cannot even imagine that kind of suffering. And at the same time withholding so much strength, so much strength that God had." [03:44] (53 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3) "So as a follower of Christ, we want to lead others to Christ. We want to lead people to freedom. Freedom from a life of being mastered by sin. Freedom to approach the throne of God with no guilt as men. Freedom to look at your wife and your family in the eye and be Christ for them. Freedom to move and have your being under the banner of Christ. This is freedom. This is a worthy cause. It's part of the mission of our church in biblical discipleship." [07:28] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4) "We must be free from this bondage. We must not tolerate each other's sin. We must disciple one another. We must conform ourselves to the image of Christ. Romans 829. Romans 829. We should live our life as coram deo, which is Latin for in the presence or in the face of God. Wherever we are, wherever we are, private, public, we should live our life as Coram deo. God does not tolerate sin. We often see the father's love for his son and we take advantage of that, do we not? We often think that God's love is directly applied to us without any intermediary. We have. Sometimes it's a tendency to have a low view of Christ and a high view of ourselves. And we think that we can go about our life, and as long as no one else knows, that's okay." [15:19] (71 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5) "Why is telling your brother in private good? Well, there's a confronting of sin with the individual, and there's a cleansing of the individual and the church back into purity. So there's a confronting of sin and there's a cleansing of the sin within the individual and the church and it comes back into purity. This is done not because of the work of your repentance, but for the work of Christ is when we become back in alignment with him and back in alignment and become pure. What happens to one impacts the whole. What you do in private impacts your marriage, impacts the church. If you're not married, your unholy living will also ripple through the church." [16:57] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6) "The goal, right, is reconciliation. The goal is always reconciliation. We do not take joy in Satan ripping up on someone who's been inside this church, who's heard our preaching, who's sung our songs, who. We've done things together. We do not take joy of Satan ripping up on someone who's been inside. But we want them back. We want them back for them to come back in repentance. This is very, very right. I want to pay attention to one word here. In one corinthians five and verse eleven, the word reviler. I think we need to understand what reviler means in this church. Reviler is someone who uses abusive mannerisms and words and slander of another. It doesn't matter who, if you're using abusive mannerisms and language and words slandering anyone in this church, whether they're in leadership or they're a child, the range goes in and all over the place. You are a reviler." [27:24] (71 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7) "We are a biblical church. We are committed to this process. Spiritual discipline. Spiritual discipline is extremely precious and becoming more and more rare these days as most churches are trending to large megachurches, even remote online services where there is zero to no spiritual discipline. It's more of a masking of sin. And then churches get surprised when one day, all of a sudden one of their leaders or someone who've been teaching all of a sudden comes to the surface. Sin comes to the surface and they're like, whoa, where did this come from? Well, let me guess. Your church did not exercise spiritual discipline. If sin is not dealt with, there is no repentance and sin will devour the person and the church. We need to take sin seriously for the sake of Christ, if you love your brother." [30:26] (56 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8) "Think about the basis of what makes a church. What makes a church is mostly three things, three basic fundamentals that makes up a church. The preaching of God's word. That's a declaration. It's a preaching of God's word. The administration of the ordinances of baptism and Lord's supper. That's a declaration. There's an individual declaration in baptism, and there's an individual communal declaration of the Lord's supper where we remember him. And the third thing that makes up a church is an exercising spiritual discipline. It is a declaration. That's what makes up a church. As I would say, one of the key rules of a church is to declare. Not to stay silent and make everyone happy and make sure we can all go our own way. And no, we declare. We declare Christ in accordance to his word, his full word." [39:38] (61 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9) "There are biblical ways to call sinners to repentance. We have to do it biblically. Most importantly, we have to do it. We have to call sinners to repentance inside the church and outside the church. We must lead people to Christ, lead people to freedom. I say this. Why is this important? Because the name of Christ is at stake. When the name of Christ is cast off to the side and not honored, then the gospel is not declared. The role of the church is to declare the word of God. When there's no spiritual discipline, this declaration diminishes. It's just like, what's the point? What are we doing here if there's no spiritual discipline?" [49:35] (47 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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