Indeed, back in chapter 1, verse 2, we were told that the proverbs themselves are to help us "know wisdom and discipline" (or instruction).
Discipline can either be verbal or physical. Indeed, even in English, the word discipline is closely related to the word disciple. It comes into English from the Latin "disciplina" which means "instruction or knowledge."
So hear the instruction β the discipline β of the Father as he disciples his son in the way of wisdom!
This catechesis β this training β is not just verbal. It starts with words and is shaped by words β but it includes all of life. "He dies for lack of instruction" β for lack of discipline β for lack of discipleship...
With our children the goal of discipline is that they might learn the right way β that they might heed our instruction and turn away from folly. And that is our heavenly Father's goal of discipline with us. He has made his son perfect through suffering β he has brought Jesus to maturity through training him. Now he is working that work in you!
Church discipline operates in the same way. There are two basic forms of church discipline: administrative β and judicial. When we think of church discipline, we usually think of "judicial discipline" β when the elders pass judgment on a particular case.
But there is a way in which every sermon β every bible study β every time the Word of God goes forth β that is an act of "church discipline." When we hear God say "believe this!" "Do this!" "Don't go there!" That is an exercise of discipline β of discipleship.
After all, "make disciples of all nations" means to discipline them in the way of Jesus Christ.
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