Discipline

 •  1 min. read  •  grade level: 8
The word occurs only in Job 36:1010He openeth also their ear to discipline, and commandeth that they return from iniquity. (Job 36:10), but the Hebrew word, musar, is found elsewhere, and is often translated “instruction,” and at times “chastening” and “correction.” In Job it is God opening men’s ears for instruction or discipline. In the New Testament the word παιδεύω is translated both “to instruct” and “to chasten,” showing that it is God’s care over His saints for blessing. See CHASTENING. There is also discipline in the church. If one be overtaken in a fault the spiritual are called upon to restore such a one (Gal. 6:11Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. (Galatians 6:1)). If there is sin, it may call for a REBUKE before all (1 Tim. 5:2020Them that sin rebuke before all, that others also may fear. (1 Timothy 5:20)). Some may need reproof (2 Tim. 4:22Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (2 Timothy 4:2)); and in other cases, as a last resort, discipline may call for “putting away.” See EXCOMMUNICATION. The end and purpose of all discipline is to restore the soul to communion with God and with His saints. Discipline should always be exercised in the “spirit of meekness,” each one considering himself lest he also be tempted (Gal. 6:11Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. (Galatians 6:1)).