1 Corinthians 5

13 verses

TL;DR

Paul confronts a sinful member of the Corinthian church, calling for removal to preserve communal purity.

Summary

In 1 Corinthians 5, Paul addresses a scandalous case of incestuous fornication within the church. He condemns the community’s complacency and warns that tolerating such sin undermines the church’s sanctity. Paul instructs the believers to excommunicate the offender, explaining that this action is for the spiritual health of the body and for the benefit of the offender’s eventual repentance. He uses the metaphor of leaven to urge the removal of corrupt influence, comparing the community to an unleavened loaf. Paul also clarifies that Christians should not associate with other sinners outside the church, while encouraging unity within.

Outline

Paul’s indictment of sin in the church and call for disciplinary action
Exposition on the purpose of removal for the well‑being of the believer and the community
Instruction to eliminate sin from the church, using the leaven metaphor

Themes

Church disciplineSpiritual purity versus moral corruptionUnity and separation within the Christian community

Keywords

incestfornicationexcommunicationleavenchurch disciplinesanctityunleavened bread

People

PaulThe offenderThe Corinthian believers

Places

Corinth

Things

FornicationLeavenUnleavened breadThe Lord Jesus Christ

Key Verses

1 Corinthians 5:5: Illustrates the theological rationale for removal—discipline for the soul’s salvation
1 Corinthians 5:6: Introduces the leaven metaphor that frames the entire disciplinary instruction

Questions

What are the biblical foundations for church discipline, and how do they apply today?
How does Paul balance justice and grace when addressing sin within the community?
In what ways does the leaven metaphor inform our understanding of contamination and purification in the church?

Sentiment

negative
The passage contains strong condemnation and calls for disciplinary action, reflecting a serious tone toward sin.