Disassociation

The Spirit gave instructions regarding church members who refuse to obey the word of the Lord.  Apparently this was a problem in Thessalonica (2Thess 3:14-15).  In such a case, we have four obligations.  First we take note of that person.  The verb is related to the noun sign, mark or token.  Obviously it means more than just making a mental note.  As Robertson puts it, we are to put a
tag on that man!  Somehow as Christians and as the church we are to identify him publicly so that others are made aware.  This contributes to the shame he must feel as a result of this procedure.  Second, Paul says we must have nothing to do with him.  Literally it means do not mix up together with him.  We are not to keep company with him or associate with him.  Yet the end of the verse requires us to regard him as a brother.  So shunning must not be intended.  We are not permitted to completely ostracize a Christian brother.  Rather, this must refer to some intermediate sanction between full fledged fellowship and complete banishment.  Certainly it includes suspension from the Lord’s Supper which is the public, visible sign of Christian fellowship.  The offending brother is barred from this sacrament in order to be ashamed.  That also serves as a public tag.  Most likely this also means that our social interactions with him are curtailed.  For example, we would not enjoy a meal with him while he is in this condition in the same way we would if he were striving to obey the Lord.  Any social interaction with him would be for the express purpose of calling him to repentance. Third, the apostle demands that we not regard him as an enemy.  Paul knows our innate tendency toward judgmentalism, bitterness and resentment.  We are likely to overstep our boundary and go beyond the biblical injunction.  Do not view him as an enemy, but as an erring brother.  Fourth, we must warn him as a brother.  Not an enemy…  as a brother.  The distinction is clear.  He remains within the fold.  He is entitled to loving discipline.  We do not give up on him.  This seems to cement the notion that Paul is referring primarily to church discipline.  Notice how shame is an instrument of restoration!  We all know what powerful motivation it provides.  The confluence of God’s law and human conscience exerts a mighty influence upon the individual soul, so mighty that most people cannot stand it.  A crushed spirit who can bear? (Prv 18:14)  God will use it as an instrument of discipline in guiding His beloved and erring children.  These four obligations are difficult to fulfill.  If followed they create tension.  People feel awkward.  Feelings may be hurt.  Shame is brought to bear.  But this is the teaching of holy Scripture.  We do well to heed the instruction of infinite wisdom lest we too require the painful influence of shame.