Doctrine of separation
The Doctrine of separation, also known as the doctrine of non-fellowship, is a belief that the members of a church should be separate from the world and not have association with those who are of the world. Additionally, there is a belief in first and second degree separation. Baptists want to be separate from the world, but there are some who would claim that not only should you separate from the world, but also from those Christians who would not separate themselves from the world. Second degree separationists believe that not only should Christians not associate in any way with the world, but that should also not associate with Christians who associate with "the world". Believers in second degree separation believe that Christians who are tied up with "the world" are themselves guilty of apostasy for their failure to adequately separate. Practices and areas that should be separated from under the more severe brands of the doctrine of separation include: Mental Life: Thoughts, reading, attitudes
Physical Life: Dress, physical contact, entertainment, speech
Social Life: Friendships, courtship, career
Spiritual Life: Personal devotional life, fellowship with other Christians, the Church (This part was taken from Middletown Bible Church's web page and may not be representative of all those holding to the doctrine of separation)
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