The authors are experienced Christian counselors. Their goal is to offer a balanced approach to church discipline that heals and reconciles. Recognizing the progressive deterioration of moral standards in Christendom and its adverse effects in the churches, the authors assert, "Never before in human history has there been a time that (so demands) a pure church, a reconciled church, a disciplined church, a repentant church" (p. 12). Taking guidance from God's Word, they explain how such strength can be brought into the church.
The writers are especially sensitive in recognizing that church discipline can be cruelly colored by self-righteous vindictiveness on the part of those who exercise discipline. Yet they also recognize the need to uphold the pure teachings of the gospel if the church is not to become a religious clubhouse purveying carnal religion slavishly adaptable to the trends of a fallen world. With practical, persuasive analysis, the authors show through case histories how biblical principles may be applied which will enable church leaders to steer in a redemptive direction that is neither per missive nor intolerant in dealing with erring church members. The book also has an excellent chapter on how to apply restorative discipline to church leaders who go astray.
The book shirks no issues; it provides mature perspective on restoring the fallen, while maintaining the purity of doctrine and witness. Highly recommended.
