Introduction: In 1 Corinthians 5, the Apostle Paul talks about a serious issue in the church at Corinth; the presence of sexual immorality among believers, specifically a case that was not even tolerated among non believers. Paul’s message is clear and stern; it calls on the church to uphold purity and holiness within the church. This chapter teaches discipline within the church and the need for Christians to separate themselves from corrupt influences, and also learning to accept correction when correction is needed. Something all churches would do well to learn in year 2024.
I. Recognition of Sin in the Church (1 Corinthians 5:1-2)
Paul begins by calling out a case of sexual immorality involving a man and his father’s wife. The church’s pride filled attitude, despite this sin, moves Paul to use correction that would cause them to mourn and remove the offender from among them. We read in Leviticus 18:8 about the same topic, it outlines prohibitions against sexual relations with a stepmother, showing the gravity of the sin. Jesus spoke about dealing with matters like this in church in Matthew 18:17, He said if someone refuses to listen to the church’s correction, treat them as an outsider, pointing out the need for church discipline. Furthermore James 4:8-10 calls for sinners to cleanse their hands and purify their hearts, showing the need for repentance and humility, especially in the church body.
II. The Call for Church Discipline (1 Corinthians 5:3-5)
Paul, although not present with them at the time, has already passed judgment on the sinner as if he were there. He instructs the church to deliver the man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so his spirit may be saved. We can see in 1 Timothy 1:20 how Hymenaeus and Alexander were handed over to Satan, showing the principle of church discipline leading to repentance of the rest of the church. Jesus speaking to believers said in Matthew 16:19, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, this emphasizes the authority given to the church. We find directions for the church body about these matters in 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15, these verses advises to avoid those who disobey the teachings, yet not treat them as an enemy, the goal being restoration.
III. The Importance of Purging Evil (1 Corinthians 5:6-8)
Paul warns against the church glorying in a matter such as this, and uses the example of old leaven, urging the church to celebrate the feast without the old leaven of malice and evil, but with sincerity and truth. The removal of sinful ways of people is what is referred to here and furthermore in Exodus 12:15-20, we read about the the Feast of Unleavened Bread, symbolizing the removal of sin. Sinful people have a way of infecting everyone if not dealt with, we read in Galatians 5:9, a little leaven leavens the whole lump,” warning of the permeating nature of sin. Also Ephesians 4:22-24 encourages believers to put off the old self and be renewed, pointing out the call to purity.
IV. Instructions on Associating with Sinners (1 Corinthians 5:9-13)
Paul clarifies his admonition about not associating with sexually immoral people. He distinguishes between those of the world and those in the church, stating it is not the church’s role to judge outsiders but to judge those within the church. Judgement begins at the house of God (1 Peter 4:17). We read in 2 Corinthians 6:14-17 a warning against being unequally yoked with unbelievers, supporting the separation from persistent sinners. Jesus shows us in Matthew 7:1-2, while warning against judging, the Bible also suggests a standard by which believers are to discern right from wrong within the body of Christ.
Conclusion: 1 Corinthians 5 gives believers a strong message about the need for holiness and discipline within the church. The chapter teaches the importance of confronting sin, exercising church discipline, purging evil from within the body of believers, and being able to discern the right relationships with those inside and outside the church. Paul’s preaching is as relevant now as it was to the Corinthians, calling us to be vigilant stewards of God’s truth and to live lives that are a testimony to the transforming power of the gospel. By embracing holiness, purity and righteousness, we will shine like a light set on a hill in a world in desperate need of salvation.
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