10 Reject a divisive man after the first and second admonition,
Paul asked Titus to challenge divisive people with two warnings. If these cautions did not work then he was to deal with them summarily. There is a prudent procedure for dealing with troublemakers in the church.
10 Reject a divisive man
Paul said to “avoid” and then to “reject” a divisive person. The church is not to tolerate a divisive person in is midst.
“Divisive” comes from the Greek word heretic. Its usage here carries the idea of factions, sects. A divisive person loves to take sides. This individual refuses to submit to sound doctrine and is a law unto himself.
after the first and second admonition,
Intransigent disagreements require biblical correction and confrontation. Jesus gave a procedure for correction as well (Mt 18:15-17). The procedure here requires two admonitions or warnings. If these cautionary admonitions fail, then the pastor is to reject fellowship with this person. The idea here is not formal excommunication but rejection of fellowship. An admonition affects the will and disposition of the person corrected.
2 Th 3: 15 Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.
2 Ti 2:25 in humility correcting those who are in opposition, if God perhaps will grant them repentance, so that they may know the truth, 26 and that they may come to their senses and escape the snare of the devil, having been taken captive by him to do his will.
PRINCIPLE:
There is a procedure for handling troublemakers in the church.
APPLICATION:
Church discipline requires a procedure. Discipline is not something we do haphazardly. The purpose of biblical discipline is restoration; therefore, the process should be remedial and redemptive. The ultimate goal of church discipline is the protection of the church and its ministry (Mt 18:15-17; Ga 6:1,2; 2 Th 3:15; Ja 5:19).
Division in the church results in hostility among believers and deadening of ministry. Outreach to the lost and edification of believers will no longer be a priority. The emphasis will become “Who is right? Will my group prevail?”
Ro 16: 17 Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. 18 For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple.
So it means I can’t sack him or her from the church?
John, there is a clear process that the church takes, not an individual. Note study above.
Dear brother, greet you in Jesus name. If the individual or a few is from another congregation how to apply Mt.18?
Tit.3:10. Two admonitions required. What if after one admonition, the person (s) in question shuts the door of communication..can they be Marked.
VGEag, God’s institution is the local church on earth. Most instruction about rebuking a brother or sister deals with the local church. However, there are some passages that indicate one leader rebuking another leader like Paul did to Peter in Galatians 2:6-10. Utmost care must be taken if we make a charge against another brother. Often we do not have all of the facts from afar. In your case, there is too much unknown to make a proper judgment.