What should be the goal of church discipline?

According to Paul's teaching in 1 Corinthians, the overarching goal of church discipline is restorative rather than punitive. When dealing with sin within the church, the intention should be to confront the individual with the hope of bringing them to repentance. This aligns with the nature of the gospel, which seeks lost sinners to be saved and restored into fellowship. Discipline that is exercised should be motivated by love and concern for the erring believer’s soul, driving them to recognize their sin and its detrimental effects both on themselves and the community. Paul conveys that turning someone over to Satan, or expelling them from the church community, serves to highlight the seriousness of their sin, ultimately leading to their redemption and restoration in the faith community. Thus, church discipline is a delicate yet necessary practice aimed at healing and sanctifying God’s people.