LCMS Commission on Constitutional Matters — Minutes St. Louis, Missouri — June 10-11, 2002, Page 12

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by which potential unfitness becomes known to the church, and even independent of any wrongful
conduct on the part of the person bringing such allegations. As the Commission earlier suggested, the
complaint may even be initiated by someone outside the church, or even a non-Christian who may refuse
to consider reconciliation under Matthew 18 or any other process.
Opinion 02-2267 further recognized that “because the goal of all Christians should first be reconciliation,
it is incumbent on those within the church to always follow Matthew 18.” This is demonstrated in Bylaw
2.27 by its provision that the guidelines of Matt. 18:15-16 be followed with the assistance of a small
committee if necessary. Whenever possible, members of the church must honor Matthew 18 and must
seek reconciliation. Failure of a member to act in good faith in seeking such reconciliation should itself be
recognized as giving offense and should be addressed by the responsible District President.
49. Adjournment
Time having expired, the meeting was closed with prayer.

Raymond L. Hartwig, Secretary

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