James 5:19-20 English Standard Version
19 My brothers, if anyone among you wanders from the truth and someone brings him back, 20 let him know that whoever brings back a sinner from his wandering will save his soul from death and will cover a multitude of sins.
This scriptures sounds like someone in fellowship has left the group. That may be true and then again one could say that wandering from the truth can happen without leaving fellowship. In the first case the one who leaves fellowship will no longer be an influence upon the others. In the second case their presence within the group will remain as an influence.
How do we discover anyone who has wandered from the truth? In most cases they have spoken up about their understanding. There is also the possibility that errors in theology remain unspoken because some individuals do not share their thoughts.
One of the better blessings of being in fellowship is a place of safety, where our deepest thoughts can be shared without fear of rejection. If we create that safe place perhaps the timid soul will finally speak up and be seen. It is important to receive them with love and a certain amount of lenient understanding.
Romans 14:1 English Standard Version (ESV) As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions.
Remember that opinions are not theology. They are opportunities to discuss not destroy. Most opinions are not dangerous but they can be an indication of a measure of maturity. We change according to God’s plan and our opinions today may well change as the Holy Spirit reveals truth as we are ready to receive it.
If we encourage opinions we will be able to watch the maturing process as we continue in fellowship. Cut them off from discussing opinions as nothing more than opinions then they may wander not only away from truth but from fellowship also.