Embracing Discipline as an Act of Love
Have you ever wondered how we, as a church, should handle sin within our community? It's a question that might make you uncomfortable, but it's crucial for our growth and unity. Imagine a sports team preparing for a new season. The coach knows that without discipline, the players won't perform at their best. Similarly, in our spiritual lives, discipline is essential for us to thrive as followers of Jesus.
In Matthew 18, Jesus gives us a roadmap for dealing with sin in the church. He uses the image of "little ones" to describe us—weak, needy, and prone to conflict. We need Jesus, and we need each other. The main point of this teaching is clear: The church disciplines sin because it is an act of love that Christ has empowered us to enact.
Understanding Church Discipline
When we talk about church discipline, it's not just about excommunication. In fact, 99% of it is much simpler and more common. It's about being proactive, seeking reconciliation, clarifying misunderstandings, and involving as few people as possible. Jesus instructs us to address sin directly and lovingly, aiming for repentance and restoration.
Be Proactive: If someone sins against you, don't wait for them to come to you. Go to them. Holding onto hurt only breeds pride and division. Jesus sought us out in our sin, and we should do the same for others.
Seek Reconciliation: The goal isn't to seek justice or make someone feel guilty. It's about forgiveness and restoring relationships. We are all part of the same body, washed in the blood of Christ.
Clarify: When addressing sin, aim to help the person understand their actions and their impact. It's not about justifying your hurt but about guiding them towards repentance and reconciliation.
Involve Few: Start by addressing the issue privately. If that doesn't work, involve a few trusted individuals. This ensures that the concern is valid and not just a personal sensitivity.
The Authority of the Church
Jesus gives the church the authority to discern and apply biblical doctrine. This authority isn't just for church leaders; it's for all of us. We are the tools God uses to discipline and sanctify His church. It's a sobering responsibility, but it's also a beautiful one.
Taking the Next Step
Discipline is a sign of God's love for us. It's how we grow in holiness and intimacy with Christ and each other. So, what can you do this week to embrace this teaching? Is there someone you need to approach for reconciliation? Or perhaps you need to open your heart to receive discipline from others. Remember, we need each other to grow and thrive as a community.
