Celebration of Discipline by Richard Foster
Week 10: Chapter 9 — Confession
Read Chapter 9 of Celebration of Discipline. Key Scripture: James 5:16; Psalm 32:1–5; 1 John 1:9.
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Confession is the discipline that most of us privately wish we didn't need — and yet Foster argues it is one of the most healing and liberating gifts the church has largely forgotten. This week, let the chapter open a door you may have kept shut.
Discussion Questions
7 questions1.Foster writes that 'the church has disregarded the discipline of confession and we have been the poorer for it.' Do you agree? What has been lost by moving confession primarily into the private realm of 'just me and God'?
2.He draws a distinction between confession to God alone (which is always valid) and confession to a fellow Christian (which James 5:16 commends for healing and community accountability). What is the unique value of confessing to another person? What does it accomplish that silent confession cannot?
3.Foster emphasizes the importance of confessing to a trustworthy person — someone who will hold what you share with care and confidentiality, and who will pronounce genuine absolution. Do you have such a person in your life? If not, what has prevented you from cultivating that kind of relationship?
a.What would you look for in choosing a confessor?
b.What would make you feel safe enough to confess something genuinely shameful to another person?
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