I looked in the New Testament to find a procedure for dismissing a preacher. I found the following examples:
• Stephen was stoned. (Acts 7)
• Paul speaks of all these things: being beaten, jailed and stoned among other things. 2 Cor 11:23-33
• James was killed with a sword. (Acts 12)
• Jesus was crucified. (Matt. 27)
Even though emotions can be a little raw on occasion, I believe it is safe to say that these are not the means we want to use. Both the preacher and the congregation must consider the integrity of the church. The separation must be done with love for all souls involved.
There can be no rumors or gossip. Division is condemned. This is a very sensitive responsibility of the leadership in the local congregation. Since the circumstances can very greatly and each congregation is autonomous, there is no set procedure. Any process decided upon must be fueled by love. Since you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit in sincere love of the brethren, love one another fervently with a pure heart, 1 Peter 1:22 (NKJV) Let me add: “Whatever the circumstances.”
- Charlie Gamble preaches for the Brunswick Church of Christ in Southport, NC. He may be contacted at cgamble64@gmail.com
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