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However, as you point out, it is *not* for any of us to judge the fate of anyone’s eternal soul.

There is a Biblical basis for Church discipline. While it is tempting to use the above argument against it, Church discipline is Biblically called for in the case of those Congregation members who walk disorderly. The Bible teaches that when error and sin are left alone they spread.

The past couple hundred years, during which so many Churches have wandered away from true doctrine, including Church discipline, bear out the wisdom of Scripture. I Corinthians, I Timothy, II Thess, Matthew, all have some references to this doctrine. A very thoughtful reading of Hebrews 12 is wholeheartedly recommended which I hope you will find most edifying.

I'd be happy to quote a few verses if necessary; in any case the more conservative denominations certainly adhere to this and there are many writings which explain the Biblical mandate, allowing one to interpret Scripture correctly. It is a subject that certainly deserves study, since, although very rare, it is a very important part of Church life and a blessing.

Actually, were it not for the concept of Church discipline, which the Reformers thought was misapplied, they would have had no need to flee Europe and come to America.

Blessings.

Great post, but I have to add that I think that this side of Heaven there is very little possibility that even Church discipline will reach the level to what God has called it... in other words, the Body of Christ is fallible. We all have a sinful fallen nature and thank God- literally, that He provided a way through His Son, Jesus for us to become Sons of God. Through the Holy Spirit we can do His will and become more like Him- BUT in the meantime we have this flesh that we must deal with daily. All that to say that although the Church can follow God’s Word as far as discipline it doesn’t always turn out as planned. I was in a Church where a couple got divorced and the husband was allowed to remain on the worship team, even though he treated his wife horribly. I have every confidence that the Pastor and Elders were Godly men trying to do God’s will, but this happened anyway. The Pastors and Elders were NOT God, therefore they were fallible.

So although we have the Bible to guide us, we are all going to go off the path at one time or another. That’s been happening since Adam and Eve. And will continue to happen until Jesus returns.