What is the context?
Those who are working faithfully are told not to grow tired of doing good. The church must take persistent refusal of the letter’s instruction seriously and limit association so the person recognizes the seriousness of the conduct.
Paul immediately sets a limit on the response: do not treat the person as an enemy. The aim is admonition within a relationship still described as brotherly. Correction and continuing concern belong together.
How is this passage commonly understood?
Wesley understands the reduced association as a refusal of needless familiarity, joined to a loving explanation of the reason. This is purposeful correction rather than permission for contempt. The passage does not authorize mistreating someone or discarding the command to keep doing good.
What is our position?
We don't have a position on this passage yet. When our study reaches a conclusion the text supports, it will appear here.