2 Corinthians 2:5-11
5 But if any has caused sorrow, he has caused sorrow not to me, but in some degree— in order not to say too much—to all of you.
6 Sufficient for such a one is this punishment which was inflicted by the majority,
7 so that on the contrary you should rather forgive and comfort him, otherwise such a one might be overwhelmed by excessive sorrow.
8 Wherefore I urge you to reaffirm your love for him.
9 For to this end also I wrote, so that I might put you to the test, whether you are obedient in all things.
10 But one whom you forgive anything, I forgive also; for indeed what I have forgiven, if I have forgiven anything, I did it for your sakes in the presence of Christ,
11 so that no advantage would be taken of us by Satan, for we are not ignorant of his schemes.
Introduction:
Theme: Four guidelines governing church discipline so it might be effective.
I. It is conducted in the sphere of the local church vv5-6
A. Church discipline arises from offenses in the church, which are inevitable (cf. Matt. 18:15) vs 5
B. Church discipline may require participation of the whole church (cf. Matt. 18:17) vs 6
II. It is concerned with the good of the offender vv7-8
A. Church discipline requires that we forgive and comfort the repentant offender (cf. Matt 18:15, 35; Luke 17:3-4) vv. 7,10
B. Church discipline moves us to love the repentant offender vs 8
III. It is contingent upon the
- fidelity
of the church vs 9
Church discipline tests the obedience of a church
Five steps for confrontation
1 turn to scripture and b
2 prayerfully examine your own heart in the matter
3 prayerfully determine the right place to confront the individual
4 approach the person with the right attitude.
5 be ready for the response
IV. It is cognizant of the
- threat
of the enemy vv10-11
Church Discipline leads to forgiveness
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