2 Corinthians 13:1-10 "A Loving Model of Church Discipline" (Rev. Erik Veerman)
In this text, we see how the church should handle ongoing unrepentant sin in its midst.
Paul warns the Corinthians that those who continued in sin would need to be dealt with. Paul preferred, however, to see them repent. The most important thing was not his own vindication but that they stopped doing wrong and were restored to the truth for the glory of God.
Church discipline has distinct rules. Charges must have corroborating evidence, discipline can only be Spiritual (biblical admonition, suspension from the Lord's Supper, Excommunication), and the goal is ultimately restoration. God's glory is at stake when a church fails to discipline. We should see church disincline as a good thing and a mercy. Christ endured condemnation in our place and now welcomes us into the loving and merciful discipline of the Father. He does not give us what we ultimately deserve but preserves us through church discipline to bring us back to Himself and protect us from the danger of sin.
Application Questions:
Paul quotes from Deuteronomy 19:15-21 stating that charges must be supported by multiple witness. Why is corroborating testimony important?
Paul is reluctant to administer church discipline. What would he rather see and why (see vv. 2-4, 9-10)?
What would church discipline look like if they didn't repent (see Titus 1:13; 1 Cor. 11:27-32; 1 Cor. 5:1-5)? Would it be physical or Spiritual?
According to verses 5-8, what is church discipline ultimately about?
How is the gospel the message of Church discipline?
Scriptures for Further Study: Isaiah 55:6-9; Psalm 139:1-12, 23-24; Isaiah 1:18; Deuteronomy 19:15-21; Matthew 18:15-20; Ephesians 4:1-6
