How should Christians actually practice church discipline? Jesus has not left the church to figure it out on its own. In Matthew 18:15–17, He gives a clear process that begins with a simple but challenging first step: go to your brother or sister privately.

In this episode of The Rod and the Staff, Pastor Tony Myers examines the first step of biblical church discipline—individual admonition. Church discipline does not normally begin with church leaders, a committee, or a public confrontation. It begins when one Christian lovingly and humbly goes directly to another.

Pastor Tony explains why we should go privately, why we must avoid gossip and assumptions, how to approach another believer with humility rather than accusation, and why the goal is never condemnation. The goal is repentance, reconciliation, restoration, and ultimately to “gain your brother.”

He also discusses important exceptions—including abuse, threats of harm, criminal activity, significant authority imbalances, and public scandalous sin—when going alone may not be appropriate.

Biblical church discipline requires courage, humility, and selfless love. And in most cases, this private conversation is where the process should begin—and end.

For more biblical resources and teaching from Pastor Tony Myers, visit RodStaff.org.