CHAPTER VI
cases of appeal
Cases of difficulty and discipline do sometimes occur, so aggravated in their nature or so complicated in their treatment that it is found impossible to make a satisfactory settlement by ordinary methods; especially so if discipline has ended in exclusion. The excluded member will be almost sure to think he has been dealt with unjustly, and will wish for some redress; and if the case has been of long standing and much complicated, he will be equally sure to have others sympathize with him and condemn the action of the church. Now, although the presumption is that the church has done right, and is justified in its action, the possibility is that the church has done wrong, and is censurable for its action.
What can be done in such a case?
Note 1.—On the New Testament theory of church government, the action of this individual local church is final. There is no power either civil or ecclesiastical, that can reverse its decision or punish it for wrong-doing. It may make mistakes, but no human tribunal has authority to compel it to confess or correct them.
Note 2.—Councils, if appealed to for redress, have no authority; they are simply, always, and everywhere advisory—that, and nothing more. They can express an opinion, and give advice; but they have no authority to issue decrees, and would have no power to enforce them if they should.[1]
Note 3.—Any person who believes himself wronged by church action has the inalienable right to appeal to the church for a new hearing, and, failing in this, to ask the counsel and advice of brethren, should he see fit to do so.
Now observe—If an excluded member believes himself unjustly dealt by, and wishes redress the following is the proper course for him to pursue:
1. Apply to the church which excluded, and ask a rehearing. State to them the grounds of his complaint and the evidence on which he thinks he can satisfy them, if a fair opportunity for being heard be given him.