This verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:15, is part of a larger passage in which Paul is addressing the problem of idleness and disruptive behavior within the Thessalonian church. Some members were refusing to work and were instead interfering in the lives of others. Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:
"Don't count him as an enemy...": This means that even though someone is acting inappropriately and causing trouble, they should not be treated as someone completely outside the community or someone to be shunned and hated. They are still considered a part of the Christian family.
"...but admonish him as a brother.": This is the key part. It means that the proper response to someone behaving wrongly is not to ostracize them, but to lovingly and gently correct them, as you would a sibling. The word "admonish" implies a gentle, caring, and persuasive form of correction, not a harsh or condemnatory one. The goal is to help them see the error of their ways and encourage them to return to proper behavior.
In essence, the verse emphasizes the importance of restorative discipline within the Christian community. It suggests that even when dealing with those who are in error, the attitude should be one of love, concern, and a desire for their restoration, rather than condemnation or rejection.
This verse, 2 Thessalonians 3:15, is part of a larger passage in which Paul is addressing the problem of idleness and disruptive behavior within the Thessalonian church. Some members were refusing to work and were instead interfering in the lives of others. Here's a breakdown of the verse's meaning:
"Don't count him as an enemy...": This means that even though someone is acting inappropriately and causing trouble, they should not be treated as someone completely outside the community or someone to be shunned and hated. They are still considered a part of the Christian family.
"...but admonish him as a brother.": This is the key part. It means that the proper response to someone behaving wrongly is not to ostracize them, but to lovingly and gently correct them, as you would a sibling. The word "admonish" implies a gentle, caring, and persuasive form of correction, not a harsh or condemnatory one. The goal is to help them see the error of their ways and encourage them to return to proper behavior.
In essence, the verse emphasizes the importance of restorative discipline within the Christian community. It suggests that even when dealing with those who are in error, the attitude should be one of love, concern, and a desire for their restoration, rather than condemnation or rejection.