Thanks Mackay for your insights. I found this very interesting:
I’m sure it’s often badly and unequally applied. But I also think there’s a certain symbolism to it. Apologies if this cuts a bit too close… But if sin is the actions which hurt others or ourselves and the way we distance ourselves from God, then a period of being in formal or informal probation is a symbol of being distanced from worshiping God. Maybe it’s not about punishing people, but creating an environment that represents the spiritual implications.
Very intriguing points that I haven’t considered before. Thanks for your insight.