Oops, this sure hasn't taken a turn for the better here. JR, I've been among Christians my whole life too and never seen any reference to, or practice of, "shunning" except in some very narrow sects by reading about it. I think you are taking an unpracticed non-issue and buiding it into a doctrine.

However, leaving religion aside, don't all of us avoid people we don't think would be good company? Or who would drain our reserves, infringe on our hospitality, borrow and not return things, etc. Of course that is more about practical matters than theology. I agree that a kind aunt or uncle etc. shouldn't be avoided because of being in a different church. But look at how intermarriage between religious or racial groups would be a big issue in many families. Most of us are past the point of moving out of the neighborhood over an immigrant family coming in, etc. but still don't embrace everyone equally so let's not kid ourselves.

The whole issue of what is a valid and non-valid basis for association is a huge one. Sassy brought up how you even look, certainly what age you are, and your health, all creep into job hirings regardless of relevant skills offered. Yet the employer may think for workplace harmony and efficiency, he is "justified." Sometimes it all depends on whether you are the one discriminating or the one excluded. We do it with books and films and music and we do it with each other. Whatever we exclude may keep us purer or may mean we'll never know what we missed.

What would make a more interesting discussion is whether the attribute of the shunned one or group deserves the treatment. I think most of us try and distinguish between conditions that can't be helped (being in wheelchair) as opposed to a choice one has conciously made (next door nudists not welcome at friends poolside barbecue). The first area we try and solve with protective laws, the second area always gets messier based on viewpoint and gets to be a tug of war and social values expression. For example, A street preacher blames the crowds for their "stiff necks" at not receiving the message, but the crowds on their side feel that he has aggressed into their quiet space or market gaiety. Because we know we're not all alike, this is where permissions help keep the peace and fences make better neighbors.