Part 1: When should the church withdraw from someone? 

Part 2: Can one be disciplined without withdrawing?

 

Part 1: When should the church withdraw from someone? (Emphasis on the when)

1. It is good to note that this question correctly implies that not only do the “elders” withdraw from the person, but also “the church” also does.
2. The charge to withdraw is found in II Thessalonians 3:6-15.
3. This verse involves those who would not work and support themselves and instructs us to: “withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition, which he received, from us.”
4. Romans 16:17-18 discusses those who “cause divisions and offenses”. The charge is to note and avoid them.
5. Jesus himself commands it: Matthew 18:15-17 In the case of a brother who sins and refuses to repent.  In Jesus’ own words: “….let him be to you like a heathen and a tax collector.” There should be no social association with the brother (or sister) who refuses to repent.
6. The purpose:

 

ü      To save the soul in error.

ü      To save the souls of other members in the church.

ü      To magnify the Lord and His Church in the eyes of the world.

 

Part 2: Can one be disciplined without withdrawing?

1. Discipline “before withdrawal” occurs before they refuse to repent.
2. Discipline is “training that is expected to produce a specified character or pattern of behavior, especially that which is expected to produce moral or mental improvement.”  We should all receive regular discipline and be thankful for it.