Church Discipline – A Question
Categories: Church of Christ Bulletin ArticlesA querist asks, “If a person has been disfellowshiped, should the congregation who disfellowshiped him notify other (area) congregations concerning this action? I realize the autonomy of each congregation is involved and that they will make up their own minds concerning whether or not to extend fellowship to the individual, but should they be notified at least, so that they are aware of the circumstances?”
Paul’s admonishes the Roman brethren in Romans 16:17 – NKJV:
“Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.”
John tells us in 2 John 1:9-11 that we as Christians are not to receive anyone into our house who no longer abides in the teaching of Christ.
Additionally, we are not to bid this wayward member “God speed,” for if we do, we are considered an accessory to the fact. We are indeed just as guilty before God of not abiding in the doctrine of Christ as the guilty party is. If the guilty party goes to another congregation, and that congregation accepts the guilty party that was disfellowshiped, that congregation then becomes an accessory to the fact and will be held accountable before God. This is indeed a serious consequence to think about.
The following contain varying views regarding this subject along with articles that address church discipline:
- Church Discipline — A Tragic Neglect
- Church Discipline