A Compelling Testimony: Maintaining a Disciplined Walk, Christlike Character, and Godly Relationships as God's Servant

Ses s i on 3: The Ce l ebrat i ons of a Di sc i p l i ned L i fe 85

2. Practical insight: A rule that we live by in terms of practical discipline ought to help us focus on the life, salvation, and commands of Christ: he is the center of our lives.

3. Supporting commentary:

When we despair of gaining inner transformation through human powers of will and determination, we are open to a wonderful new realization: inner righteousness is a gift from God to be graciously received. The needed change within us is God’s work, not ours. The demand is for an inside job, and only God can work from the inside. We cannot attain or earn this righteousness of the Kingdom of God; it is a grace that is given. ~ Foster. Celebration of Discipline. p. 6.

B. A rule that emphasizes the life of discipline as it is lived in the community of faith (i.e., the body principle)

1. Exegetical evidence

a. The communal nature of Spirit-filled Christian experience, Acts 2.42-47 – And they devoted them selves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. [43] And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. [44] And all who believed were together and had all things in common. [45] And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. [46] And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, [47] praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.

b. All saints contribute in worship, 1 Cor. 14.26 – What then, brothers? When you come together, each one