Die Afrikaanse Protestantse Akademie Biblioteek

Includes bibliographical references and indexes.

"This is a handbook for pastors, elders, and all Christians who want to see how Scripture presents the process of discipline that should operate in the Christian community. It was written in response to the various concerns that threaten to tear apart marriages, families, friendships, and congregations--concerns that call for a biblical approach to discipline that can heal fractures, restore right relationship, and ensure the health of the church. Developed around the five corrective steps found especially in Matthew 18:15-17, this book helps church leaders deal with the sorts of problems that require the church's disciplinary response. Charting a course that combines discernment with appropriate action, this simple, readable handbook can have a profound effect on the community of believers."--Back cover.

1. What is church discipline? -- 2. Corrective discipline -- four or give steps? -- confidentiality -- all steps, always? -- 4. Self-discipline -- the beginning and the end -- 5. One-on-one -- informal discipline -- the meaning -- going to the offender -- what to say -- privacy -- reconciliation -- every little thing? -- 6. One or two others -- witnesses only? -- what the counselor/witnesses do -- 7. Tell it to the church -- telling the church -- the elders' part -- how does it work? -- 8. Removal from the midst -- "as a heathen and a tax collector" -- the terms and the reality -- procedures and records -- mourning -- 9. Restoring to fellowship -- forgiveness -- assistance -- reaffirmation of love -- 10. Cross-congregational discipline -- what if the church defaults? -- respecting discipline -- handling church hoppers -- divisive persons -- liberal churches? -- 11. Encouragement -- Christ's presence in the process -- answered prayer -- heaven and earth -- how to go about it -- conclusion.