A Statement of Excommunication and Suspension from Membership in a Congregation

Abstract

This 1975 statement, evaluated by the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod’s Conference of Presidents, clarifies the biblical and doctrinal distinctions between excommunication and suspension from congregational membership. Excommunication applies to manifestly impenitent individuals whose sins—including faith-destroying doctrinal errors—persist despite repeated admonition (Matthew 18:15–17). Suspension, by contrast, addresses those who cling to non-foundational doctrinal errors or cause division, yet still confess Christ and seek forgiveness (Romans 16:17–18; Titus 3:10). The document emphasizes that both procedures aim to restore the erring brother and preserve doctrinal unity. Supporting Scripture and quotations from WELS theologians and doctrinal statements reinforce the distinction and its pastoral application. The statement also affirms that excommunication applies only to individuals, not groups, and that separation from errorists is a protective measure, not a judgment of damnation. A comprehensive bibliography of supporting sources is included. —Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)