The Shame That Restores

2 Thessalonians 3:14-15

14 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. 15 Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother.

Notes

Church discipline is often misunderstood; some think it is harsh. But it is a biblical command for restoration. Paul, the apostle, teaches the church how to respond when someone refuses to obey apostolic instruction. In today’s context, apostolic instruction is the NT. Is the OT included? Yes, since the Law, the Prophets, and the Psalms proclaimed Christ either in shadow or prophecy. Yet, one must study the OT through the apostolic lens, the NT. The goal of Church discipline is not rejection but restoration. It has OT roots, but it is applied in the church. The method is not hostility but withdrawal. The text cited commands the church to disengage from the unrepentant, maintain a posture of love, and guard the unity and purity of the body through faithful obedience to Christ’s command.

1. Disengage

   The church must carefully note those who persist in disobedience. In the immediate context, it is about idleness and apostolic instruction (2 Thess. 3:6). This is not about small disagreements or preferences. It is about someone who knowingly and continually rejects Christ's and the apostles' teachings

   
   If anyone does not obey what we say in this letter, take note of that person, and have nothing to do with him (2 Thessalonians 3:14a).
   

   Application: The church must follow through with discipline. When someone is under discipline, we must not maintain casual contact. We must avoid it. That includes digital messages, likes, and replies. We love them best when we stop pretending that everything is okay. It might be painful, but it is Scriptural. We trust that God’s will be done.

2. Shame

   Paul commands the church to notice the unrepentant and break fellowship. This is not personal hatred but spiritual discipline. Separation is necessary when obedience to God’s Word is rejected. It reminds the person that sin has real consequences.
   

   that he may be ashamed (2 Thessalonians 3:14b).

   Application: When a brother or sister refuses to turn from clear sin, members should avoid them. Let the discomfort of separation serve its purpose, which is to awaken conviction and lead to repentance. Do not protect someone from the pain that God intends to use to restore them.

3. Not an Enemy

   The author reveals himself as the beloved disciple. He positions himself as a firsthand testimony of all he recorded. The author affirms that what has been written is genuine and trustworthy, even while acknowledging that Jesus did far more than could ever be recorded.

   
   Do not regard him as an enemy, but warn him as a brother (2 Thessalonians 3:15).
   
   Other passages command church members to avoid those who cause divisions and those who engage in sin that can destroy the community.
   
   But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one (1 Corinthians 5:11)
   
   As for a person who stirs up division, after warning him once and then twice, have nothing more to do with him, knowing that such a person is warped and sinful; he is self-condemned (Titus 3:10).
   
   I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them (Romans 16:17).

   Application: Do not disrupt the silence or disengagement. Do not fellowship or connect in any way unless the church leaders have verified genuine repentance. But be careful not to treat such a person as an enemy. How? Our hearts must be pure. We must hope that they will be contrite and shameful. But if they do not feel ashamed of their sin, if there is no genuine repentance, then have nothing to do with them.
   
   Challenges
   There are several challenges a church can face when implementing church discipline:
   
   1. Misplaced compassion: Some see discipline as rejection rather than a loving call to repentance, resisting necessary action.
   2. Emotional attachment: Personal ties may cloud judgment, making it hard to support discipline of close friends or family.
   3. Credibility of witnesses: Uncertainty or weak testimony may cause hesitation, delaying rightful correction.
   4. Church size: Large congregations face logistical challenges in informing the whole church, often relying on elders or deacons.
   5. Failure to enforce: Ignoring removal decisions weakens church authority and renders discipline ineffective.
   6. Fear of losing members: Leaders may avoid discipline to retain numbers, compromising biblical obedience.
   

   Application: Implement church discipline despite the challenges. We must obey God’s word rather than give in to any reason.

Reflection & Discussion

1. . What does it mean to “have nothing to do with him” in the context of church life today?

2. How can the church withdraw fellowship without acting in hatred or pride?

3. What are the signs of genuine repentance, and why must we wait to observe them?