Wesleyan Pentecostal Church
of Washington
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Understanding the Difference Between
Crucifixion and Discipline
Crucifixion makes discipline possible.
Crucifixion restores perverted appetites to normal, natural, healthy affections.
Crucifixion is a one-time experience that need not be repeated in life. It is a completed death. Note the terminology of Scripture:
Dead to sin, have crucified the flesh, I am crucified, you are dead, etc.
These describe a fact accomplished.
Crucifixion is experienced when the believer by faith accepts the provision of Christ’s death. When faith is exercised the Spirit affects in the believer this unearned blessing of grace.
By crucifixion the body is delivered “from” the old master—sin.
Crucifixion deals with the old man and a body that is enslaved to sin. The Spirit applies the atonement provision and breaks the hold (addictions) that sin has on the body.
In crucifixion one dies to the flesh. Flesh is crucified as a ruling principle and the Spirit is enthroned as ruler.
Scriptures:
Romans 6:1-12; 7:1-6; Galatians 2:19-20; 5:24; Colossians 2:20-3:3; 1 Peter 4:1-3.
Crucifixion
Discipline
Scriptures:
Romans 6:13:23; 12:1-2; 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 15:31-32; 2 Corinthians 4:7-18. Ephesians 4:22-32.
In discipline one dies in the flesh. Flesh is disciplined as a servant. The Spirit guides and produces the fruit of temperance.
Discipline deals with the new man and a body that is weakened by sin. The Spirit quickens the mortal body helping the believer obey God and develop habits of holiness.
By discipline the body is delivered “to” the new master—Christ.
Discipline is accomplished by daily obedience to the Spirit and application of Scripture truth. The Spirit helps the saint in the discipline process, but does not do it for him. The saint must practice daily yielding and buffeting the body.
Discipline is a daily process and habit that must be repeated daily. It is a living death. Note the terminology of Scripture:
A living sacrifice, yield your members, I die daily, always bearing in the body the dying of the Lord, etc.
These describe a lifestyle practiced.
Discipline tempers natural, normal appetites and prevents the flesh from resurrecting and ruling.
Discipline makes crucifixion fruitful.
