Introduction

1 Corinthians 5 addresses a serious issue of sexual immorality within the Corinthian church, specifically a case where a man is involved with his father’s wife. Paul uses this situation to teach broader lessons on church discipline, purity, and the collective responsibility of the community to uphold Christian moral standards. This chapter is pivotal in understanding how the church is to deal with sin internally.

The Case of Immorality in the Church

Paul’s Shock and Rebuke

Paul expresses shock and dismay that such a flagrant case of immorality is being tolerated within the Corinthian church. He is astounded not only by the sin itself but also by the church’s arrogant attitude towards it, as they have not mourned or taken action to remove this wickedness from among them (1 Corinthians 5:1-2).

Instructions for Church Discipline

Paul instructs the Corinthians to deliver the man who has committed this act to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord. This severe measure reflects the early Christian practice of excommunication, intended as a means of ultimate correction, not merely punishment (1 Corinthians 5:3-5).

The Importance of Purity in the Church

The Leaven Analogy

Drawing on the symbolism of leaven, which in Jewish thought often represents sin and corruption, Paul admonishes the church to cleanse out the old leaven to become a new lump, as they are unleavened. He connects this to Christ, our Passover lamb, who has been sacrificed, indicating that the purity of the church reflects the sacrificial purity of Christ (1 Corinthians 5:6-8).

Moral Implications

Paul clarifies his earlier instructions about associating with immoral people, emphasizing that his warning was not about disassociating from immoral people of the world at large—since then, one would need to leave the world—but rather about not associating with anyone who claims to be a brother or sister in Christ and yet indulges in immorality, greed, idolatry, slander, drunkenness, or swindling. Such a person, claiming to be part of the church but living contrary to its values, should not even be eaten with, underscoring the seriousness with which the church must maintain its moral integrity (1 Corinthians 5:9-11).

Theological Themes and Connections

Connection to Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 5 connects deeply to Jesus Christ through the imagery of the Passover lamb. Just as the Passover lamb was sacrificed to set the people apart and save them from judgment, Christ’s sacrifice sets believers apart as holy. This foundational connection underscores the reason for the church’s call to holiness and purity—because they belong to Christ and are to reflect His character.

God’s Love for the World

This chapter shows God’s love in its call for discipline within the church. While the measures may seem severe, they are rooted in the desire for repentance and ultimate restoration to the community. God’s discipline is a manifestation of His love, aiming not to punish but to correct and save.

Contemporary Relevance

1 Corinthians 5 remains highly relevant today by addressing how the church should handle blatant sin within its community. It challenges modern churches to take sin seriously and to practice church discipline responsibly and lovingly. The chapter highlights the balance between judgment within the church and grace, aiming for restoration and the spiritual health of the individual and the community.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 5 is a crucial text for understanding the responsibilities of the church in maintaining its moral and spiritual integrity. It calls for a community marked by purity and holiness, reflecting the nature of Christ, our Passover lamb. The principles laid out by Paul in this chapter continue to guide churches in dealing with internal challenges, emphasizing the need for a loving but firm approach to discipline and moral accountability.