Revealed sin (def.) = Sin that has become known to the elders or congregation by way of confession or other means.

1. By being afraid of the stigma associated with revealed sin (Job 31:33-34).
2. By forgetting this is the sign of a vibrant and valid ministry (Act 19:19-20; Mat 21:32; Joh 15:1-2; Rev 3:19; e.g. 18th and 19th century Revivals and Great Awakening).
3. By allowing those involved to isolate themselves (Pro 18:1; Jam 4:8; Heb 10:25 w/Eph 1:22-23).
4. By refusing to unconditionally forgive and gently restore where it is possible and when it is time (Luk 17:1-10; 1Th 5:15; Gal 6:1; Heb 6:4-6; 2Co 2:6-7).
5. By perverting (rather than seeking) justice in relation to sin (Deu 16:19-20).
6. By not using these circumstances to exhort God’s people to examine themselves and make sure they are not being deceived by – but rather dealing justly with, their sin (2Co 13:1-5; Heb 3:12-14).

CONCLUSION: Churches (or people) that continue to fail in their response to revealed sin are churches (or people) in sin and in serious danger of continuing as a covenant community that Christ recognizes and will bless.