SS Outline 8.2.2026

Practical Theology, Week 19
Topic: Members of One Another — Week 1 of 12
Title: Start at the End: How "Members of One Another" Shapes Departure from a Local Church
Texts: Romans 12:3–8; Ephesians 4:1–16, 25
Confession: 2LBCF 26.5–7, 12–13
Big idea: Because believers belong to one another under Christ, an ordinary departure should be completed openly, truthfully, and through the church's recognition.

• When did their membership end? — a case of silent departure
• We belong to one another (Romans 12:3–8)
• Mutual identity requires truth (Ephesians 4:1–16, 25)
• What Scripture places in the congregation's hands (Matt. 18; 1 Cor. 5; 2 Cor. 2; Rom. 16:1–2)
• A faithful departure: speak, reconcile, transfer care, conclude truthfully
• For reflection: Have I treated membership as a service I consume or as people to whom I belong? If I were ever to leave, whom would I owe the truth?
• Take home: Read Romans 12 and Ephesians 4. Name three members whose spiritual good is your near responsibility.