Discipline in the Church (2Thess.3:6-18)

“If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him, in order that he may feel ashamed. Yet do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.” (2Thess.3:14,15)

The worst thing that can happen to the Church of Jesus Christ is the callousness of its members. Many congregations hesitate to take disciplinary actions against erring members.

Keep Aloof

Believers are advised to keep aloof from fellow believers who are negligent towards the instructions in the Bible. The Church should encourage members to keep the Scriptural principles and to keep away from those who ignore it. We need to discipline ourselves and help keep the discipline of the body of Christ.

“But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.” (1Cor.5:11)

“Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them.” (Eph.5:11)

Keep Working

The Church should set examples of discipline and hard work. Paul worked hard as a professional tent maker not only to pay his bills but also to set an example for fellow believers. He suggested the principle ‘Food for Work’ or ‘No Work No Food’. In doing what is good we should never become tired.

Keep Admonishing

We who set an example should constantly engage in admonishing those who default. We must warn them in brotherly love.