Quaker Heritage Press > Online Texts > The Old Discipline > Introduction
For this important end, and as an exterior hedge of preservation to us, against the many temptations and dangers, to which our situation in this world exposes us, the following rules have been occasionally adopted by the society, and now form our code of discipline. In the exercise whereof it is to be observed that, if any member be found in a conduct subversive of its order, or repugnant to the testimonies which we believe we are intrusted with for the promotion of truth in the earth, it becomes our indispensable duty to treat with such, in meekness and brotherly compassion, without unnecessary delay or improper exposure; according to the direction of our Lord to his church "if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault, between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses, every word may be established. And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it to the church; but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee as a heathen-man and a publican." Matt. 18:15,16,17.
This is the extent of the society's censure against irreclaimable offenders, they are disowned as members of our religious community; which is recommended to be done in such a disposition of mind, as may convince them, that we sincerely desire their recovery and restoration, "considering ourselves, lest we also be tempted." Gal. 6:1.
For the more regular and effectual support of this order of the society, beside the usual meetings for the purpose of Divine worship, others are instituted subordinate to each other; such as First. Preparative meetings, which commonly consist of the members of a meeting for worship; Second. Monthly meetings, each of which consists of several preparative meetings; Third. Quarterly meetings, each of which consists of several of the monthly meetings; and Fourth, the yearly meeting* which comprises the whole.
These meetings have all distinct allotments of service; and as experience shews that when this service is attended to in uprightness and dedication of heart, with a single eye to the honour of our Holy Head, and the help and edification one of another, in the love wherewith he has loved us, our assemblies are often favoured with his aid and direction; Friends are affectionately desired and exhorted, to be diligent in the attendance of them; and when met, humbly seek to be clothed with the spirit of wisdom and charity; this will divest the mind of a dependance on our own strength and abilities, endue us with patience and condescension towards each other; and being preserved in fellowship agreeably to our Lord's declaration, "One is your master, even Christ, and all ye are brethren," a qualification will be experienced in our several stations and movements to build up one another in that faith which works by love to the purifying of the heart.
So may we be living members of the church-militant on earth; and inhabitants of that city which hath foundations, whose maker and builder the Lord is; knowing indeed with exceeding joy that great is He the Holy One of Israel in the midst of her.