Church Discipline – Avoidance and Authority

Forms of Discipline within the Fellowship.

First of all it should be noted that all Biblical Discipline is restorative after repentance is seen and tested by the elders.

1. Withdrawal of recognition for defiance of the Fellowship Oversight. (Matthew 18:15-17).

2. Excommunication for grievous moral delinquency. (1 Corinthians 5:11-13).

3. Avoidance and disassociation for disorderly conduct. (1 Thessalonians 5:14).

4. A public rebuke for less serious sin. (1 Timothy 5:20).

5. Silencing of vain and unprofitable talkers! (Titus 1:10-11).

6. Solemn warning to formers of factions. (Titus 3:10).

7. Rejection for serious doctrinal error. (2 John verses 9 and 11).

The Discipline of Avoidance.

These are the 5 Principles within the Biblical Pattern for Avoidance.

1. Towards Divisive teachers. Romans 16:17.

2. Towards Doctrinal heretics. Romans 16:17.

3. Towards Dishonest trustees. 2 Corinthians 8:20.

4. Towards Disorderly brethren. 2 Thessalonians 3:6.

5. Towards Disobedient believers. 2 Thessalonians 3:14.

The Authority and Work of the Elders.

1. Shepherds – to feed the flock. Acts 20:28 and 1 Peter 5:2.

2. Fathers – to give counsel and comfort. 1 Thessalonians 2:11.

3. Teachers – to instruct the disciples. 1 Timothy 3:2.

4. Guides – to lead the saints. Hebrews 13:7.

5. Guardians – to watch for the souls of believers. Hebrews 13:17.

6. Overseers – to take the oversight of the Fellowship. 1 Peter 5:2-3.

7. Examples – to show the character of the Lord Jesus. 1 Peter 5:3-4.

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