Contrary to what Rick Warren and his ‘defenders’ would have you think, pastoral discipline is neither harsh nor inappropriate. Here is what the Bible says on the matter:

1 Cor. 11:32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are disciplined so that we may not be condemned along with the world.

Notice that this verse clearly says that the Lord disciplines us so that we may not be condemned along with the world. That is a very loving and positive aspect to being disciplined.

Hebrews 12:5 And have you forgotten the exhortation that addresses you as sons? “My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him. 6 For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.”

Again, notice that the Lord disciplines those HE loves. Discipline is a truly loving act on God’s part towards his sons.

By refusing to do his Biblical duty by disciplining Rupert Murdoch, Pastor Rick Warren is committing a grave mis-service to Rupert Murdoch.

The Lord Jesus loves Rupert Murdoch and doesn’t want him to be judged for his sins like the rest of the world. But, by refusing to discipline Murdoch Warren is making it appear like Rupert is an illegitimate son of God.

Scripture tells us that Jesus loves Rupert enough to discipline him for his sins, in the hope that he would repent and not be judged. But the man who should be showing Christ’s love to Rupert by disciplining him has put his foot down and refuses to do his duty.

This is truly sad. We need to pray that Rick Warren would show Christ’s love to Rupert by disciplining him. We need to pray for Rupert that God will discipline him so that he will repent and not be judged for his sins.