This is the answer for which Alma sought the Lord. He wondered what to do with those accused of transgression, and the Lord instructed him to judge them based upon their attitude. If they are repentant and humble, they should be forgiven and remain in the church. If they were proud, unrepentant, and rebellious in their attitude, they should be excommunicated. The advice given to Alma is still applicable today. As the bishops and stake presidents decide what to do with transgressors, this principle is a key to wise judgment. From the Church Handbook of Instructions, the following paragraphs are applicable:
“The purposes of Church discipline are (1) to save the souls of transgressors (2) to protect the innocent, and (3) to safeguard the purity, integrity, and good name of the Church. These purposes are accomplished through private counsel and caution, informal probation, formal probation, disfellowshipment, and excommunication.” (Church Handbook of Instructions, 1998, Book 1, p. 91)
"Voluntary Confession
Voluntary and complete confession demonstrates a repentant attitude, which may favor leniency. An admission of guilt after a person has been accused of or interviewed about a transgression is less indicative of repentance. A person who admits guilt when interviewed by a bishop shows greater repentance than one who tries to deceive and admits guilt only when confronted with evidence." (Church Handbook of Instructions, 1998, Book 1, p. 103)
"Evidence of Repentance
Normally, evidence of repentance is the most important single factor in determining how to accomplish the first purpose of Church discipline: saving the soul of the transgressor. Genuine repentance is demonstrated more reliably by righteous actions over a period of time than by intense sorrow during a single interview. Judgments about the adequacy of repentance require spiritual discernment. Factors to consider include the nature of the confession, depth of sorrow for the sin, success in forsaking the sin, strength of faith in Jesus Christ, faithfulness in obeying other commandments, truthful communications to Church officers, restitution to injured persons, obedience to legal requirements, and willingness to follow the direction of Church authorities." (Church Handbook of Instructions, 1998, Book 1, p. 104)
Dallin H. Oaks
“In contrast to the punishment that is the intended result of the judgment of a criminal court, the primary purpose of church discipline is to facilitate repentance—to qualify a transgressor for the mercy of God and the salvation made possible through the atonement of Jesus Christ….Church discipline is not an instrument of punishment, but a catalyst for change….The major concern of the laws of God is to perfect the lives of his children.” (Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 237)
Spencer W. Kimball
“The Lord is on your side and you must remember that numerous people are saved by excommunication. They are not lost by excommuncation. They are saved through excommunication.” (Teachings of Spencer W. Kimball, p. 98 as taken from Latter-day Commentary on the Book of Mormon compiled by K. Douglas Bassett, p. 238)