What is "withdrawal"?
Introduction. There are many New Testament teachings and practices which help to distinguish the Lord's church from the churches of men. One such aspect is the exercise of congregational discipline and withdrawal. As Paul instructed the Thessalonian church: "But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us." (2 Thes. 3: 6).
Purpose of withdrawal. A church or individuals must not withdraw from a brother out of vengeance (Rom. 12: 19). Neither is it for physical punishment. The goal of withdrawal should be to save the soul of the erring child of God (1 Cor. 5: 5). It is also intended to maintain the purity of the congregation (1 Cor. 5: 6-7) as well as maintaining the respect of the world (cf. Acts 5: 1-11).
Manner of action. Just like discipline in general within the family, school, or nation, church withdrawal must be consistently exercised (2 Thes. 3: 6-12). Impartiality and proof of charges must characterize it (cf. 1 Tim. 5: 19, 21; Matt. 18: 16).
The subjects of withdrawal. Everyone sins (Rom. 3: 23). However, the description of 2 Thessalonians describes the impenitent sinner who is persisting or living in sin. The verb translated "walks" is present tense. The meaning of "disorderly" is one who has broken ranks (as in a military formation), indicating rebellion. This includes those who will not provide financially for their own families (2 Thes. 3: 11, 12; cf. 1 Tim. 5: 8). Busybodies, those who cause division, and those guilty of the sins of the flesh are also subjects (2 Thes. 3: 11, 12; Rom. 16: 17: Tit. 3: 10; 1 Cor. 5: 9-11). In short, all who stubbornly break ranks and go against God's teaching should be withdrawn from if they do not repent.
Conclusion. Practicing withdrawal within the Lord's church is clearly taught and commanded. Does the church to which you belong comply with the Lord's' command?
Purpose of withdrawal. A church or individuals must not withdraw from a brother out of vengeance (Rom. 12: 19). Neither is it for physical punishment. The goal of withdrawal should be to save the soul of the erring child of God (1 Cor. 5: 5). It is also intended to maintain the purity of the congregation (1 Cor. 5: 6-7) as well as maintaining the respect of the world (cf. Acts 5: 1-11).
Manner of action. Just like discipline in general within the family, school, or nation, church withdrawal must be consistently exercised (2 Thes. 3: 6-12). Impartiality and proof of charges must characterize it (cf. 1 Tim. 5: 19, 21; Matt. 18: 16).
The subjects of withdrawal. Everyone sins (Rom. 3: 23). However, the description of 2 Thessalonians describes the impenitent sinner who is persisting or living in sin. The verb translated "walks" is present tense. The meaning of "disorderly" is one who has broken ranks (as in a military formation), indicating rebellion. This includes those who will not provide financially for their own families (2 Thes. 3: 11, 12; cf. 1 Tim. 5: 8). Busybodies, those who cause division, and those guilty of the sins of the flesh are also subjects (2 Thes. 3: 11, 12; Rom. 16: 17: Tit. 3: 10; 1 Cor. 5: 9-11). In short, all who stubbornly break ranks and go against God's teaching should be withdrawn from if they do not repent.
Conclusion. Practicing withdrawal within the Lord's church is clearly taught and commanded. Does the church to which you belong comply with the Lord's' command?