73%
Confidence
Belief overview
Ecclesial discipline and community holiness
The church must care for doctrine, morality, and community order through discipline.
3
Supportive
0
Contrary
0
Neutral
What it is: The Presbyterian tradition considers ecclesial discipline an important part of the life of the church.
How the tradition understands it: Discipline aims at correction, restoration, preservation of sound doctrine, and spiritual health of the community, not only punishment.
Basis and context: Reformed confessions and practice of councils and local sessions reinforce this point.
Debates and variations: Intensity and form of application vary widely between denominations and eras.
Documentary evidence
Supportive
Belgian Confession, Article 29
Classic text on the marks of the true church.
Reference: Belgian Confession, Article 29.
Content: The article describes marks of the true church and elements of doctrinal discipline and purity.
Use in debate: Important for Reformed ecclesiology and discipline.
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.
Presbyterian Book of Order
Ecclesial norms help structure government, discipline, and worship.
Reference: Books of order and constitutions of historical Presbyterian churches.
Content: The material organizes sessions, presbyteries, assemblies, officers, discipline, and liturgical practice.
Use in debate: Important for government by presbyters and ecclesial discipline.