If session or a higher court learns of a sinning member, it must not ignore the situation. The court may deal with the situation directly or by a judicial commission. (See section II, chap. 4, par. 1, as well as the Directory for Church Government, chap. 6, par. 15 on page D-33.)
Web transcription of the official 2026 PDF, with links (Crown & Covenant Publications), or the unchanged file. Where they differ, the PDF governs.Transcribed from the official 2026 PDF, with links (or the unchanged file). Where they differ, the PDF governs.
Contents
Section I · Chapter 3. Dealing with Sin in the Church—Corporate Responsibility
If there is reasonable evidence that a member is teaching heresy, disregarding or violating the moral law, or showing contempt for the courts of the church, the court shall contact that member in love and with care, and shall investigate the allegations.
If the sinner confesses and repents, there must be forgiveness and reconciliation, and the matter shall be closed. You have won your brother. Such closure may include counsel or censure appropriate to the circumstances.
If the accused does not contest the charges, regardless of whether or not he acknowledges the truthfulness of the accusation, and does not give evidence of repentance from the alleged sin, the court may proceed, without formal trial, to the imposition of any formal censure in hope of repentance. (See chap. 4 for appropriate censures.)
However, if the accused takes steps to contest the charges, the court may not proceed to issue a censure beyond admonition or rebuke without conducting a formal trial. (See section II for the formal trial process.)
Scripture: Matt. 18:17; Deut. 19:15; 2 Cor. 13:1.