2 Thess 3:14,15

SCRIPTURE

2 Thess 3:14,15

If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him, that he may be ashamed. Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

COMMENT

I find this interesting on many levels. First, the initial thought is that this is almost a cultic approach to treat someone as an outcast if they do not follow the leader(s). However, on a deeper look, the purpose seems not to be control as much as it is to create awareness. Let him realize the error of his ways for his behavior. They are not to ostracize in a destructive manner, but rather as a warning, still viewing that person as a brother.

Do we take this to heart? Probably not as much as we should. It can be hard to know where to draw the line between matters of disagreement and matters that violate how a believer should behave. I think it takes a strong leader to know the difference.