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 The
first article I wrote for publication in a
"brotherhood" paper was "Churching the Young
People" (Firm Foundation, V.58 N.21; July 8, 1941). It
acknowledged the need for discipline, pointed out that too often
we act only when our pride or "public image" is
threatened, and concluded with "the old people, too."
It
bothered me, then and now, that discipline was looked upon as
punitive, with little or no attention given to its role in
teaching, admonishing, helping to shape a better person. Our
fear of compromise, grounded in our history of doctrinal
struggles, fills a needed place. But its validity depends upon
issues that are matters of faith. In matters of human judgment
compromise is a virtue. And in matters of judgment, one's pride
is involved. Put all of that together and you may find elders
who dislike a beard "refusing to compromise" and maybe
even disfellowshipping one who wears a beard. It is in order
here to remind the bushy fellow that he also has obligations. In
mutual understanding, and mutual compromise, both
parties have been "churched" for good.
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Do
you get the picture? "Churching" (or church
"discipline" for those who do not use the other term)
is far more than recognizing the obstinate and unfaithful ones,
and delivering them to Satan (1 Cor. 5:5). It also includes the
blending, strengthening, molding effect brethren can have on
one-another to promote greater service to the Lord.
"Churching"
is taking place when we recognize our brethren as peers — when
we feel a desire to blend with them, and occupy common ground.
If we will work at making the young people feel they are a part
of this family, with responsibilities as well as privileges,
then the "churching" process can be affirmative and
beneficial.
But
if no effort is made to understand; if the young member is given
no opportunity to develop talents and the feeling of having a
place in the family; don't be surprised if he or she does
exactly like they do in the domestic family. They "leave
home" at the first opportunity, and "churching"
becomes little more than negative reaction — recognition of a
failure.
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