Publisher's Synopsis
The church discipline idea is biblical, and it is the true mark of the church. The goal of the discipline is for restoration and reconciliation of the sinning brother or sister back to the fellowship of God and His church. The churches of our age in general have lost the disciplinary practices followed in the Old and New Testament churches; as such practice prior to reformation of the church was cast off by the governing power of Roman Catholicism. However, this doctrine was revived once again in the churches as the Reformed theologians claimed it as a doctrine of Christ. John Calvin, Indeed, fought for its practice as he desired to see it in the churches.During post-reformation period, several protestant popes have nullified the church discipline idea as they consider it an unbiblical teaching for the purpose of their temporal benefits. Today, this doctrine must be practiced to preserve the purity of the Church. It is always my prayer to see the churches globally, takes this doctrine very seriously and faithfully to the teachings of Scripture so that her sanctity is preserved, the witness of the Christ is advanced among the ungodly and the name of Christ is glorified in every part of the world. To this end, this book is written for the glory of God! "O Christians! The church which does not follow the practice of church discipline moves in the direction towards the destination which is not really the heavenly home where God and His saints enjoy the eternal fellowship and everlasting happiness. O Christians! The church which does not follow the practice of church discipline does not have Christ for He cannot rest in the place where there is no practice of discipline to preserve the purity and charity grounded in the Scripture." -- Samuel Bathiran (The Author of this Book)
