246. Should not the congregation remove these hypocrites from its midst?
Yes; the congregation should expel the openly ungodly and unbelieving; but it cannot judge concerning the secret thoughts of the heart.
1 Cor. 5:13. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.
Matt. 18:15–17.
247. Who, then, are true Christians and the real members of the congregation?
They who believe in Christ with all their heart, and confess Him both in word and deed.
Rom. 10:10. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness: and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.
248. What is the intimate fellowship called in which all true Christians live with one another?
The Communion of Saints.
Eph. 4:4–6. There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling;