Page 46 - Biblical Counseling I Textbook

If the person won’t listen, the church treats the person as an unbeliever (Matt. 18:17).
• The church is removing its affirmation of this person’s membership in the body of Christ. S/he is
removed from membership publicly just as s/he was baptized publicly.

• The person is “excommunicated,” meaning denied communion.
• The person is invited to hear the gospel.

This aspect of the life of the church is vital for the ongoing care and protection of believers, and if neglected
leaves people vulnerable and creates all kinds of disorder and confusion. But, to be done right, this practice
must follow faithful instruction and be done with great care and humility or else it will become distorted and
abusive.

7.4 Let’s Practice…

1. What is confession?

2 – 5. Give four of the six 6 A’s of Confession.

6. What is forgiveness?

7. Is forgiveness conditional?

8. What is reconciliation?

9. How does the gospel compel us to pursue reconciliation?

10 - 11. What are the two signs of the new covenants among church members?

12. What passage of Scripture tells us how to deal with a person who is wayward in his walk among those in the
church?

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