Excerpt from The Watchtower, October 15, 2006: "Disfellowshipping--The Christian View"
12. Likewise in modern times, the Christian congregation is compelled to disfellowship unrepentant wrongdoers. But what of those who sincerely regret the reproach they have brought upon Jehovah's name, organization and people? Such ones may be restored to spiritual health. If so, they would not be expelled from the congregation.
13. The question then arises: "How should we treat disfellowshipped persons?" In the past, some Christians may have reasoned that a wholehearted application of such scriptures as 1 Corinthians 9:11 and 2 John 11 required them to avoid any contact whatsoever with such individuals. They acted on the basis of their consciences and should not be criticized for the stand they took. However, as we saw earlier, the inspired Bible writers clearly applied their prohibitions on association to unusual or exceptional cases, such as an active member of the congregation who openly espoused fornication, or a Christian elder who publicly denied the value of the ransom sacrifice.
14. The account of the prodigal son deeply moves us and causes us to reflect on Jehovah's boundless love and compassion, does it not? (Luke 15:11-32) Would we not wish to experience similar compassion from the congregation, even if we had fallen into a course of life not in harmony with the Scriptures? Surely the answer is yes! Therefore, today mature Christians do not view themselves as superior to those who have been disfellowshipped, refusing to speak with them or acknowledge their presence. Rather, they may choose to associate with disfellowshipped ones no more than they do with worldlings, always bearing in mind that the best and most upbuilding association can be found in God's clean organization. By setting a fine example and using words "seasoned with salt," Christians attract both newly interested ones and disfellowshipped ones to take the path of righteousness. (Col. 4:6)
15. What of those who voluntarily withdraw from being Jehovah's Witnesses, stating that they wish to dissociate themselves? That is their choice. Each must render his own account to our Creator. Jehovah's Witnesses are known as champions of religious freedom worldwide. While it is deeply regretted that a few who used to be zealous Kingdom proclaimers no longer take their Christian dedication to heart, we are not empowered to "separate the sheep from the goats," as Jesus Christ will during God's great war of Armageddon. (Matt. 25:32,33) There is no need to make a point of never speaking to those who disassociate themselves. We follow the words of Philippians 4:5: "Let your reasonableness become known to all men." Rather than clinging to past views, we humbly make adjustments. Let us be determined to keep in step with Jehovah's progressive organization as the light grows brighter! (Prov. 4:18)