What is "withdrawal"?
Introduction. There are many teachings and practices which help to distinguish the Lord's church from the churches of men. One such teaching and practice is withdrawal. Paul wrote to the church at Thessalonica: "Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us" (2 Thes. 3: 6).
Purpose of withdrawal or discipline. A church or individuals must not withdraw from a brother out of vengeance (Rom. 12: 19). Withdrawal is not for physical punishment. Withdrawal is to maintain the purity of the church (1 Cor. 5: 6, 7). Maintaining the respect of the world is another purpose (cf. Acts 5: 1-11) and to save the soul of the erring child of God (1 Cor. 5: 5).
Manner of action. Church withdrawal, just as discipline in general, must be consistently exercised (2 Thes. 3: 6-12). Impartiality and proof of charges must characterize withdrawal (cf. 1 Tim. 5: 19, 21; Matt. 18: 16).
The subjects of withdrawal. All sin (Rom. 3: 23). However, the description of 2 Thessalonians describes the impenitent sinner who is living in sin. The verb translated "walketh" is present tense. "Disorderly" suggests one who has broken ranks, hence, rebellion. Those who will not provide for their own families are subjects (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 (go against God's teaching).
Conclusion. Withdrawal is clearly taught in the scriptures. Is the church to which you belong practicing withdrawal?
Purpose of withdrawal or discipline. A church or individuals must not withdraw from a brother out of vengeance (Rom. 12: 19). Withdrawal is not for physical punishment. Withdrawal is to maintain the purity of the church (1 Cor. 5: 6, 7). Maintaining the respect of the world is another purpose (cf. Acts 5: 1-11) and to save the soul of the erring child of God (1 Cor. 5: 5).
Manner of action. Church withdrawal, just as discipline in general, must be consistently exercised (2 Thes. 3: 6-12). Impartiality and proof of charges must characterize withdrawal (cf. 1 Tim. 5: 19, 21; Matt. 18: 16).
The subjects of withdrawal. All sin (Rom. 3: 23). However, the description of 2 Thessalonians describes the impenitent sinner who is living in sin. The verb translated "walketh" is present tense. "Disorderly" suggests one who has broken ranks, hence, rebellion. Those who will not provide for their own families are subjects (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 (go against God's teaching).
Conclusion. Withdrawal is clearly taught in the scriptures. Is the church to which you belong practicing withdrawal?