“But we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly and not according to the tradition which he received from us” (2 Thess. 3:6).
There is a principle in the Word of God that I call increase by association. This principle is based on scriptures that tell us that we will increase or decrease, that we will excel or fail, because of those we associate with.
It is true that you can be a rose in the middle of a briar patch, but too often the weeds will choke out the flowers.
In 2 Thessalonians 3:6 we are commanded in the name of Jesus to withdraw from Christians who do not walk according to the teachings of Jesus.
This may sound harsh, but if you associate continually with Christians who have a foul mouth or a foul attitude or a worldly lifestyle, you could allow yourself to be pulled away from holiness. The Bible tells us that wise people associate with wise people, but to associate with a fool leads to destruction.
“He who walks with wise men will be wise, but the companion of fools will be destroyed” (Prov.13:20).
Also, it is interesting to note that 2 Thessalonians says we are to withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly. Most of the time when I have heard teachings on this verse, the instructor uses this verse to say that Christians should not be living in the world of the lost.
Although this principle is true, this scripture is talking about our association with other Christians. Just because someone is a Christian, it does not mean that you should spend all your time with them. A Christian who is in a backslidden state needs ministry and of course, we must minister the Word to all who need it.
However, we must be watchful and not allow ourselves to become continuously intimate because according to the Word, it can lead to destruction.
So, here’s my point. Associate with wise, godly people. Minister to the backslidden and the lost. Don’t live in the world and visit the church. Live in the house of God and visit the world.
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Dr. Larry Ollison is founder and Senior Pastor of Walk on the Water Faith Church and founder of Larry Ollison Ministries. With over forty years in the ministry, he is a very popular speaker nationally and internationally and ministers the Word of Faith through radio, television, Internet, and daily e-mail devotionals. As the author of twelve books (including The Power of Grace, The Practical Handbook for Christian Living, Breaking the Cycle of Offense, Life is in the Blood, and recently released The Paradise of God), he is in frequent demand for radio/TV interviews, book signings, and magazine publications.
Dr. Ollison was raised a Southern Baptist. While majoring in theology at Southwest Baptist University, he received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. For many years he traveled extensively speaking at Full Gospel Business Men's meetings and conventions. He later earned an M.A. in Theology and a Ph.D. and Th.D. from Life Christian University.
Currently President of International Convention of Faith Ministries (ICFM), Dr. Ollison is also Vice-President of Spirit FM Christian Radio Network, Missouri State Director of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), and a Trustee on the boards of several international ministries. He is also the host of The Cutting Edge Radio Broadcast and authors The Cutting Edge Daily Devotional.
As the owner of a marine dealership, his extensive business background brings a unique flavor to his teaching. He founded and served as chairman of the Missouri State Marine Board, President of the Marine Dealers’ Association, Vice-President of a bank holding company, along with holding several directorships in various corporations.
Dr. Ollison's strongest areas of teaching are the blood of Jesus, faith, relationships, the Hebrew language, the Holy Spirit, the end times, and heaven. During ministry, he operates freely in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. His use of humor and his ability to make a theological concept simple makes it enjoyable and easy for everyone to understand. Countless testimonies have been received from people who say their lives have been changed after experiencing Dr. Ollison's unique ministry.
Dr. Ollison is a pastor, pilot, teacher, and author. His number one goal is to meet the needs of the people through the teaching of faith in God's Word. He and his wife, Loretta, have two children and six grandchildren.