C.O 69
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Article 69: Repentance
When someone repents of a public sin or of a sin which had to be reported to the consistory, the latter shall not accept his confession of sin unless he has shown real amendment.
The consistory shall determine whether the benefit of the congregation requires that this confession of sin shall be made publicly and, in case it is made before the consistory or before two or three office-bearers, whether the congregation shall be informed afterwards.
Notes
For what reasons might one who has repented yet be barred from the Lord’s Table for a time
- because public scandal has occurred and it takes time for the congregation to be ready to accept the member back
- because the consistory wants to give some time for the penitent sinner to show real amendment (probation time)
- because the repentance has not yet been announced
When shall the confession of sin be made publicly? - when members of the church have suffered harm by the sinner’s acts and words
- when the member has sinned repeatedly and accountability is needed
- when the repentant sinner is concerned that forgiveness will be hard for members to extend
Clear communication with the congregation is important
Sinners must face both ecclesiastical and civil punishment, if applicable
The neighbouring consistory and/or the Classis can be asked for advice