73%
Confidence
Belief overview
Community ecclesial discipline
The community has real responsibility for correction, restoration, and purity of the church.
3
Supportive
0
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: Ecclesial discipline is understood as normal part of the faithfulness of the church to the Word.
How the tradition understands it: Fraternal correction and, when necessary, disciplinary measures aim at restoration, protection of the community, and integrity of doctrine and Christian life.
Basis and context: The theme was especially important in Puritanism and in classical Congregational communities.
Debates and variations: Modern churches vary considerably in concrete practice and in intensity of discipline.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
Cambridge Platform (1648)
Classic document of Congregational ecclesiology in New England.
Reference: Cambridge Platform of 1648.
Content: The text systematizes principles on the nature of the church, covenant, officers, councils, and discipline in Congregational key.
Use in debate: One of the most important sources for historical Congregationalism.
Matthew 18:15-17
Treatment of fraternal correction and community discipline.
Reference: Matthew 18:15-17.
Content: Jesus describes a process of correction and treatment of faults in the community.
Use in debate: Important for the doctrine and practice of ecclesial discipline.
Matthew 18:15-17
Fraternal correction and community discipline.
Reference: Matthew 18:15-17.
Content: Jesus describes a process of correction and treatment of faults in the community.
Use in debate: One of the main biblical bases of Congregational ecclesial discipline.