Foreword / by P.J. Buys
Introduction
Theme and importance
Nature : historical and theological
Usage of the word "reformed"
The Scottish Reformation
Influences upon The first book of discipline
Calvin on discipline, a theological perspective
Relationships of basic dependence
Calvin on discipline
The nature of the church : invisible yet visible
The identification of the visible church
The church as our mother
The holy bride for God's glory
Common discipline
Clergy discipline
The purpose of discipline
The authority for discipline
John à Lasco and his influence on The first book of discipline
Historical connections between à Lasco and the Scottish reformers
John Willock
John Knox
À Lasco's writings and The first book of discipline : a comparison
Superintendents
The prophesying
Discipline proper
Valérand Poullain and his influence on The first book of discipline
Historical connections between Poullain and the Scottish reformers
John Willock
John Knox
Poullain's work and The first book of discipline : a comparison
The election of ministers
Elders
Discipline proper
The French reformed church and The first book of discipline
Historical connections between the French Reformed Church and the Scottish reformers
John Knox
Other Scottish reformers
La discipline ecclesiastique and The first book of discipline : a comparison
Ministerial election and discipline
The office of elder
Discipline proper
Excursus
Calvinian sixteenth century discipline.