Tag: 1 Corinthians 5

To Judge or Not to Judge

The phrase “Judge not, lest ye be judged” has become a cultural catchphrase, often used to discourage any form of moral discernment. Yet in 1 Corinthians 5, Paul offers a strikingly different perspective, reminding us that judging is not only appropriate in some contexts—it’s necessary. Paul tells the Corinthian church to cast out a brother engaging in blatant and unrepentant sin, saying, “For what do I have to do with judging those outside? Are you not to judge those inside?” (1 Corinthians 5:12, NET).

Paul’s teaching here clarifies a common misconception. Jesus’ words in Matthew 7:1 aren’t a blanket prohibition against all judgment but a warning against hypocritical and self-righteous judgment. We’re called to examine our own hearts before addressing sin in others (Matthew 7:3–5). Paul builds on this, differentiating between judging outsiders—those who don’t claim to follow Christ—and judging those within the church who profess faith but live in open rebellion against God’s commands.

This kind of judgment isn’t about condemnation but restoration. The goal of church discipline, as harsh as it may seem, is redemptive. By removing the immoral brother, the church sends a clear message that sin cannot be tolerated in the community of believers, while also creating space for repentance and reconciliation. Paul writes, “Deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 5:5).

In a world that often prioritizes tolerance over truth, this passage challenges us to embrace a higher standard of love—one that doesn’t ignore sin but confronts it for the sake of holiness. It also reminds us to leave ultimate judgment of the ungodly to God, who judges with perfect justice and mercy.

Are there areas where you’ve avoided addressing sin because it feels uncomfortable or counter-cultural? Paul’s words urge us to be bold yet humble, seeking restoration and standing firm in the truth of the Gospel.

Furnace of Affection

Isaiah 48:10 speaks of God’s refining process, a crucial aspect of His relationship with Israel and His people today. This verse is part of a larger section (Isaiah 44:6-48:11) where God emphasizes His sovereignty, the futility of idols, and His commitment to redeem and refine His people. In these chapters, God declares His uniqueness and sovereignty, contrasting Himself with lifeless idols. He promises deliverance and redemption for Israel but also speaks of the necessary process of refining through trials. This refinement is not just for punishment but for purification and preparation for His purposes.

In Isaiah 48:10, God says, “See, I have refined you, though not as silver; I have tested you in the furnace of affliction.” This furnace of affliction is actually a furnace of affection. The intense process of refining through affliction is a manifestation of God’s deep love and commitment to His people. By allowing them to go through trials, He is purifying them, removing impurities, and preparing them for a closer relationship with Him.

We see this concept clearly outlined in the New Testament as well. 1 Corinthians 5:5 reads, “hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord.” Paul’s instruction to the Corinthian church to hand over an immoral brother (or sister) to Satan for the destruction of the flesh is a form of severe discipline meant to lead to repentance and restoration. This parallels God’s refining process in Isaiah, where severe measures are taken to purify and save His people.

Have you ever experienced personal trials? I know I have. And as we journey through these difficult circumstances — such as a health crisis or financial hardship — we might find that this “furnace of affection” brings about a deeper reliance on God, stripping away self-reliance and pride.

Never forget that God loves you and that’s why His refining process is still at work today! While the process can be painful, it is ultimately for our good, leading to spiritual growth and maturity. God’s desire is that none should perish, but that ALL should come to everlasting life.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are there areas in your life where you feel like you are being refined in the furnace of affliction? How can you see God’s hand at work in these situations?
  • How do you respond to church discipline or personal trials? Do you see them as opportunities for growth and purification?
  • In what ways can you support others going through their own refining processes?

Does God Demand Perfection?

During the dedication of the temple, Solomon offers a lengthy prayer before the assembly. This portion stood out for me:

“When they sin against you—for there is no one who does not sin—and you become angry with them and give them over to their enemies, who take them captive to their own lands, far away or near; and if they have a change of heart in the land where they are held captive, and repent and plead with you in the land of their captors and say, ‘We have sinned, we have done wrong, we have acted wickedly’; and if they turn backto you with all their heart and soul in the land of their enemies who took them captive, and pray to you toward the land you gave their ancestors, toward the city you have chosen and the temple I have built for your Name; then from heaven, your dwelling place, hear their prayer and their plea, and uphold their cause. And forgive your people, who have sinned against you; forgive all the offenses they have committed against you, and cause their captors to show them mercy

1 Kings 8:46-50, NIV

Note the progression here, I think this may be something a lot of us can identify with — I know I can.

  1. We sin
    • For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God — Rom 3:23, NIV
  2. God gives us over to our enemies
    • Sin is crouching at your door; it desires to have you — Gen 4:7b, NIV
  3. We see the consequences of our sin
    • Hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh — 1Co 5:5a, NIV
  4. We repent of AND turn from our sin
    • If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways — 2Ch 7:14a, NIV
  5. God hears us
    • Then I will hear from heaven — 2Ch 7:14b, NIV
  6. God forgives us
    • And I will forgive their sin — 2Ch 7:14c, NIV
  7. We are released from the bondage of our sin
    • So that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord — 1Co 5:5b, NIV

This is the process. If you are dealing with the consequences of sin, that’s God giving you what you’ve earned — that’s justice. If you ask for forgiveness and seek God, turning away from your sin, God will hear you and cover you with his grace — that’s mercy.

He knows we are incapable of perfection, and so Jesus came to fulfill that requirement. If we want to be covered by the blood of Jesus at Calvary, then we need to draw near to him and stand under His umbrella of grace.