WHAT THE CONGREGATION CAN DO
The one who says a greeting to him is a sharer in his wicked works.—2 John 11.
Each Christian needs to use his Bible-trained conscience when dealing with someone who has been removed from the congregation. Some may feel comfortable with greeting or welcoming the person if he attends a meeting. However, we would not have an extended conversation or socialize with the individual.
Some may wonder, ‘Doesn’t the Bible say that a Christian who says a greeting to such a person becomes a sharer in his wicked works?’ (2 John 9-11) The context of this scripture shows that this direction refers to apostates and others who actively promote wrong conduct. (Rev. 2:20) Therefore, if a person is actively promoting apostate teachings or other wrongdoing, the elders would not arrange to visit him. Of course, there is hope that he will come to his senses. Until that happens, though, we would neither greet such a person nor invite him to attend a congregation meeting.
In my personal experience attending congregation meetings over the years, I have observed that members often face difficult decisions when interacting with those who have been removed from the congregation due to apostasy or wrongdoing. It is crucial to balance kindness with adherence to biblical teachings. The verse from 2 John 1:11 reminds us that greeting someone who actively promotes wrong conduct may imply sharing in their deeds, which is a serious spiritual consideration. However, this does not mean complete harshness or abandonment. When a person is no longer promoting unacceptable teachings but shows signs of repentance, congregational members may greet or welcome them at meetings while maintaining appropriate boundaries. This approach respects the biblical instruction while encouraging positive progress. In practice, I have found that using a Bible-trained conscience helps in discerning appropriate social interactions. It involves prayerful consideration and sometimes guidance from elders. Avoiding extended conversations or socializing helps maintain clear spiritual stands without fostering division or unnecessary offense. Additionally, elders play an important role by not arranging visits for those who persist in harmful teachings, yet holding onto hope that these individuals will return to proper conduct. This measured response fosters repentance opportunities while protecting the congregation’s spiritual health. Through my journey, embracing this balanced approach has promoted peace within the congregation and encouraged loving yet firm adherence to scriptural principles.
