Chapter 39, “The Administration of Christian Discipline” (pp. 234-237)
Church discipline is a difficult topic in many times. Walther observes that though the church to be a church does not need to be practicing excommunication it is still a biblical and important concept (p. 234). Regardless, where offense exists it must be rebuked and the pastor must strive for reconciliation.
In Luther’s time the local churches tended to exercise discipline by separating people from communion but not taking more steps. Walther observes that even that step is a large one for many congregations and that the pastor should guard against anything which would distract the congregation from the Gospel.
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