What is the purpose of not associating with a sinning Christian?
The purpose of not associating with a sinning Christian is to make that person feel set aside and no longer part of the Christian company, so that he is brought to his senses. This strong measure aims at correction and restoration, prompting the person to recognize his sin and return.
Les explains that Paul distinguishes between immoral people of the world and those within the church. Believers are not told to avoid all sinners in the workplace or world, because then they would have to leave the world. But if someone claims to be a brother, a member of the local congregation, and is a fornicator, drunkard, extortioner, or idolater, believers are not even to sit down and eat with such a person. This is strong language, but the purpose is to make that person feel set aside, no longer part of the Christian company—"verboten," out of it—so as to bring him to his senses.
But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.
More Questions
What does it mean to not keep company with a professing Christian who is sinning?
The command not to keep company with a professing brother who is a fornicator, drunkard, or extortioner means not even to sit down and eat with such a person.