“According to the Sins Which He Has Committed”
Punishment and judgment must always be according to the nature of the offense. No two sinners are exactly alike: the circumstances of the transgression, the events leading up to the deed, and the quality and depth of contrition all differ from individual to individual. And thus it is that the leadership of the Lord’s kingdom can never provide more than general guidelines or principles in dealing with transgressors in the Church. All matters must be carefully weighed, evidence carefully sifted, and a decision prayerfully made. The Lord knows what is best for his children-especially his errant children-and the burden of responsibility to determine the divine will in these matters rests squarely on the shoulders of the common judges.
References
