The Terminology of Church Discipline Excommunication, Suspension, Removal, Etc.

Abstract

John F. Brug’s essay examines the terminology and theological principles surrounding church discipline, particularly in cases of impenitence. He surveys biblical, historical, and Lutheran perspectives on terms such as excommunication, suspension, removal, and self-exclusion. Brug argues that Scripture does not distinguish between categories of discipline based on the type of sin—whether moral or doctrinal—but emphasizes impenitence as the basis for exclusion from fellowship. He critiques the use of certain terms, such as “self-excommunication” and “suspension,” for their ambiguity or misleading connotations, and recommends clearer alternatives like “removed from fellowship” or “removed at own request.” Brug stresses that discipline must be carried out with clarity, love, and a goal of restoration, and that terminology should reflect the spiritual seriousness of the action. He concludes that while uniform terminology is helpful, Christian liberty allows for variation as long as biblical principles are upheld. Abstract prepared by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).