This is one of the most disturbing and harsh chapters of Paul's letters (aside from Galatians). Some people in the Corinthian church are sleeping with their "father's wife" which would translate to mean mom or step-mom - ewww! Worst of all, the church hasn't done anything about it but actually think it's amusing. (These are the saints that Paul referred to in the beginning mind you!) He says even the unchurched don't commit such lewd and gross sins! Paul rebukes them harshly for this and says that he has taken matters into his own hands to discipline the offenders, by praying to God, even though he's not with them in person: 1 Corinthians 5:5 I have decided to deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of his flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.
This shows the power of prayer, Paul's spiritual authority over the Corinthian church, and his fatherly discipline for their own good - "so that his spirit may be saved".
It also reminds us that we are not to judge people outside of the church but we are responsible to discipline those who are sinning inside the church - 1 Corinthians 5:11 But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler-- not even to eat with such a one.
I think many Christians have it exactly the opposite - judging the world and ignoring the sins of our own brothers and sisters in Christ. This passage challenges us to hold each other accountable for our actions as Christians while showing the world Christ's love for them since our actions are a key part of our lifestyle evangelism.
Have a wonderful week knowing that Jesus loves you!!!
This shows the power of prayer, Paul's spiritual authority over the Corinthian church, and his fatherly discipline for their own good - "so that his spirit may be saved".
It also reminds us that we are not to judge people outside of the church but we are responsible to discipline those who are sinning inside the church - 1 Corinthians 5:11 But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler-- not even to eat with such a one.
I think many Christians have it exactly the opposite - judging the world and ignoring the sins of our own brothers and sisters in Christ. This passage challenges us to hold each other accountable for our actions as Christians while showing the world Christ's love for them since our actions are a key part of our lifestyle evangelism.
Have a wonderful week knowing that Jesus loves you!!!
