The Dusty Binding Key: Applying Excommunication to Wandering Sheep

Abstract

Excommunication, once understood as a pastoral act of love grounded in Christ’s command, has become a rarely used and often misunderstood practice within modern Lutheran congregations. This thesis argues that the decreased use of excommunication does not arise from doctrinal disagreement but from fear of misuse, legalism, and a lack of clear teaching on its biblical purpose and proper application. Building on Matthew 18 as the scriptural foundation, and supported by texts such as 1 Corinthians 5, this study reviews the historical understanding of excommunication from Luther, Gerhard, and Walther, emphasizing its intended role as part of the ministry of the keys. Contemporary attitudes and practices were examined through surveys and interviews with over forty WELS pastors, revealing hesitations rooted in past abuses, unclear terminology, and insufficient congregational catechesis. The findings suggest that when excommunication is carefully taught and patiently implemented with pastoral and congregational involvement, it functions not as punitive removal but as a compassionate call to repentance. Several case studies demonstrate that, practiced rightly, excommunication can be an effective means through which Christ restores wandering sheep to his flock.