In Corinthians 5 Paul challenges the church at Corinth to expel the immoral brother from the fellowship, and then he lists other sins at the end of the chapter. Is Paul stating that anyone found to be in sin (those mentioned in this list) must be expelled also (if they don't repent)? I think so; do you agree? -- Rick Robles (New York)
The flagrant sin of 1 Corinthians 5 (fornication with one's stepmother) is grounds for immediate expulsion, according to Paul. The audacity of the sin reminds me of the immorality of Numbers 25. (No "three steps" here! Immediate action is required.) The other flagrant sins Paul mentions in this context are greed, idolatry, slander, drunkenness, and swindling (1 Corinthians 5:11).
Yes, as I read the text I agree with you: all these sins are grounds for disfellowship. A truly biblical church must enforce discipline, and one whose leaders refuse to maintain this standard is in danger of complete compromise with the world.
This article is copyrighted and is for private use and study only.
