I'm sure this has already been discussed. But here are my thoughts on why JCs are unscriptural.
- Elders are instructed to look for “works that befit repentance (Acts 26:20).” First of all this scripture was talking about the repentance of sins and turning toward God needed to become a baptized follower of Jesus. The context shows that Paul is talking about the message he preached to unbelievers. This message is similar to the one preached by John the Baptist at Matthew 3:8 and Peter in Acts 3:19. So if this is a scripture used to justify judicial committee activities, I believe it’s woefully misapplied.
- Jesus instructed us to forgive (Matt 21:22; Luke 17:3,4). If a wrongdoer goes to the elders with a problem or confession and repents, then he should be forgiven according to scripture. He may even need to receive a “rebuke,” as mentioned in Luke, but he should still be forgiven if he repents. Verse 4 goes on to further mention that we must take the wrongdoers word, since we cannot read hearts. “Even if he sins seven times a day against you and he comes back to you seven times, saying, ‘I repent,’ you must forgive him.” Therefore, I don’t believe it belongs to the elders to determine genuine heartfelt repentance. That belongs to Jehovah.
- Jesus helps us understand how to deal with more stubborn individuals. Matt 18:15-17 shows that the wrongdoer should be confronted first. Then if they do not repent, further steps must be taken including removal from the congregation. The idea is to gain your brother and not rely on a formula to determine repentance or discipline.
- People who are not practicing sin, but have not approached the elders about a past sin should not be disfellowshiped (see above reasoning). Additionally King David committed sin and covered it up, but was forgiven by Jehovah. God reads hearts and forgives by means of Jesus and it is not up to men to judge that someone has a bad attitude.
- Fear of being expelled prevents those with problems from seeking help. Instead elders are instructed to act as loving spiritual shepherds, doctors, helpers and friends. James 5:13-16 clearly demonstrates this point. James doesn’t say “let the sinner seek the elders help and then let there be a judicial committee to see if they should be disfellowshipped or if they’re repentant.” Instead it’s clearly telling elders “if someone is sick or needs help, help them.” Why would anyone be moved to openly confess sins if they knew that they were going to be subject to a judicial committee with their entire relationship with friends and family hanging in the balance? How is that helpful or even healthy? It only adds to stress and guilt. Sadly I know many who have decide to fade away or hide addictions rather than seek help because of fear.
- Judicial restrictions (punishment) are unscriptural. After Peter publicly denied Christ, was he put on judicial restrictions? No. Shortly after his resurrection he visited Peter and encouraged him and entrusted him with responsibility (John 21:15-19). He had forgiven Peter despite his serious error. Shortly thereafter Peter would be used during Pentecost to help many get baptized. Therefore, not allowing repentant ones to comment at meetings is punitive and unscriptural.
Sadly as one of JW my entire life I can see the organization becoming Pharisaical and corporate with its endless rules. Following rules, going in service, attending meetings does nothing to change our sinful nature. Brothers are realizing this and becoming deeply depressed because they still feel they don’t measure up. Many live in fear of the elders and are afraid to express themselves for fear of condemnation. Thus many witnesses live fake lives and are not their authentic selves. Jesus knew just how sinful man is and helped us appreciate just how awesome and far reaching God’s undeserved kindness is for those who have faith and know God. I believe we’ve completely overlooked this and instead base righteousness on outward appearances, works and compliance to endless rules.