The Key of Christian Discipline

Minister:
Date: PM
Text: Matthew 18; Lord's Day 31
Psalters: 318, 94, 253, 231
  1. The concept of this key.
    1. The objects of Christian discipline.
      1. In general, all the members of the church are the objects because of the presence of sin in everyone.
      2. Specifically, the objects are those who hold practices or doctrines contrary to the name ?Christian.?
    2. The institute (elders) take action after preliminary action by the individual members of the organism.
      1. The consistory treats only public sins, and unconfessed private sins after individuals have admonished.
      2. The elders act only when the professing believer will not repent and persists in his sin (17).
      3. Positively, the key power is exercised to save (sanctify) those who are truly citizens of the kingdom.
  2. The Head of the church institute exercises the key of Christian discipline through its elders.
    1. Why do elders have the right to discipline?
      1. First, Jesus commands His church to do so (Ezek. 33:2-6; I Cor. 9:16).
      2. Second, discipline is for the spiritual well-being of the church ? corporate responsibility.
    2. The Lord Jesus holds the key of Christian discipline (Matt. 16:18b; Rev. 3:7).
      1. The Lord Jesus gave this authority to the elders ? those whom He called (John 20:22,23).
      2. Jesus declares that He is ?in the midst of them? (Matt. 18:20).
      3. Further Jesus says their work is meaningful and effective in heaven, though it may be flaunted on earth.
      4. The Reformed way of doing Christian discipline reveals much wisdom.
    3. Thus, the elders, as Christ?s representatives, are worthy of honor (I Tim. 5:17), to whom we vow submission.
  3. Discipline?s purpose and fruit.
    1. The purpose is the glory of God and the edification of the Church.
      1. The congregation as a whole is strengthened and built up.
      2. The individual believers experience the wonder of forgiveness by grace alone.
    2. There is positive fruit for everyone.
      1. All Israel hears and fears.
      2. The church is assured that Christ is present, and loves them.
      3. The elders receive the joy of the Lord.