G. Principles of Discipline (Chapters 27-30)

Question 1

What is church discipline?

Answer 1

• “Discipline is the exercise of authority given the Church by the Lord Jesus Christ to instruct and guide its members and to promote its purity and welfare.”

Question 2

What is the goal of church discipline?

Answer 2

• The glory of God
• The purity of the church
• The keeping and reclaiming of disobedient sinners (the goal is godliness)

Question 3

What are the proper steps of church discipline?

Answer 3

• Admonish another (Matthew 18:15)
• If rejected, call one or more witnesses (Matthew 18:16)
• If rejection persists, Church must act through a court- to either (1) admonish, (2) suspend, (3) excommunicate, or (4) depose

Question 4

Who is primarily responsible for disciplining non-communing members?

Answer 4

• Parents

Question 5

List and define church censures.

Answer 5

• Admonition
• Suspension from Sacraments
• Excommunication
• Suspension from office
• Deposition from office