A Splendid Article
I wish to highly commend brother Holt's article on dealing with unruly brethren. If brethren would realize that it is for the good of all concerned that scriptural action be taken against ungodly brethren, and act accordingly, the church would be in a much better condition. Christians are the very best people on earth. We all make mistakes, but are to help each other live faithful clean lives. We should be patient and longsuffering, but when some brother purposely does wrong to injure the church or members of the church, he should be dealt with nicely and politely, but firmly — even if he is a "big brother."
Brethren should remember that they are guilty of the sin which they encourage. Some brethren have "pleasure in them that do" the evil. (Rom. 1:32) God is against those who bring disgrace and reproach upon his blood-bought institution! When such wicked men are put in the lead in public worship the worship is repulsive to God. Their prayer is an abomination to God. (Prov. 28:9)
Be gentle, be humble, be nice (considering thyself lest thou also be tempted), (Gal. 6:1) but deal with them. Let the church be an example of right living. The church needs more teaching on discipline. People should be taught before obeying the gospel that the standard of conduct of a Christian is higher than that of non-religious people.
Brother Holt hit hard where I was looking.