Role of Men in the Church

Session 5 Study Questions - Man as Disciplined

"But Daniel resolved not to defile himself with the royal food and wine, and he asked the chief official for permission not to defile himself." Daniel 1:8

"He will die for lack of discipline, led astray by his own great folly." Proverbs 5:23

1. Can you find evidence in the scripture that the apostle Paul struggles with self-discipline? If so, where?
2. Many have suggested that discipline is not valued today in the life style portrayed in the media. Can you provide some examples, especially from advertising?
3. Do you believe that we are a less disciplined society? If so, why? If not, why not?
4. Though perhaps not in the most effective ways, men (and women as well) in churches of Christ during past times were noted for their discipline. What are some of the ways Restoration Christians practiced discipline in the past?
5. The idea of spiritual disciplines has been propagated in Christian churches for millennia, especially among Catholic mystics. What are some of the spiritual disciplines which have been encouraged?
6. Provide some examples of discipline from the life of the prophet Daniel.
7. Do you believe that men experience problems with self-discipline in the spiritual disciplines today? If so, what might be some general guidelines for improving our discipline?
8. What are some spiritual disciplines which Christian men (and women) should work to practice more effectively?
9. What is the role of the church in encouraging self-discipline in the spiritual disciplines? Are there fears that the church may become too active or intrusive when encouraging self-discipline? Can you provide some examples?