The Necessity of Discipline

Without discipline, our world would be in chaos. Discipline is defined as, “the practice of training people to obey rules or a code of behavior, using punishment to correct disobedience.”

Discipline can take many forms, here are just a few:

  • Self-Discipline
    This type of discipline is self-imposed and provokes us into action without a threat of reprisal from outside sources. Called self-control in Galatians 5:23, it is the discipline that prevents us from yielding to temptation which leads to sin (James 1:13-15).

  • Parental Discipline
    This is the discipline applied by parents to children when they are disobedient. Parental discipline, to include corporal punishment, is encouraged in the wisdom writings. “My son, hear the instruction of your father, And do not forsake the law of your mother.” (Proverbs 1:8)

  • Civil Discipline
    Christians are instructed to obey the laws of the government under which they live (Romans 13:1-7). Civil discipline is applied to those who break the law, even Christians who defy man’s law when they conflict with God’s law.

  • Spiritual Discipline
    This discipline can be described as one in which we experience spiritual growth. This includes regular worship, prayer, bible study, and benevolence. (John 4:24; 1 Thes. 5:17; 2 Tim. 2:15; Gal. 6:10)

Jay Launius – 2023, Maud church of Christ, Maud, Texas