What is the primary purpose of church censures?

The primary purpose of church censures is to reclaim and gather Christians who have sinned. This approach is grounded in the biblical principle of restoration and reconciliation rather than punishment. The intent behind church censure is to address sin within the community, allowing for an opportunity for the individual to repent and be restored to fellowship with the church and God.

Censures are meant to serve as a corrective and redemptive measure, guiding the individual toward repentance and spiritual growth. Through this process, the church demonstrates its commitment to the well-being of its members and the integrity of the community. This aligns with the teachings found in passages like Matthew 18:15-17, which emphasize the importance of addressing sin with the goal of restoration rather than merely inflicting shame or exclusion.