12.2 Behold the Man!
The Irony of Judgment: The True King and the Lamb of God

Read John 18:38–19:5. How does Pilate try to convince the people to request the release of Jesus?

In John 18:38–19:5, we experience one of the most tragic and at the same time profound scenes of the Gospel. The irony and symbolism that permeate this passage emphasize the gravity of the events and reveal the spiritual reality behind the external actions.

1. Pilate’s Uncertainty and Manipulation by the Leaders

Pilate is in a difficult position: he recognizes Jesus’ innocence but is constrained by political and social dynamics. His attempt to persuade the crowd to release Jesus shows both his uncertainty and lack of determination. By invoking the custom of releasing a prisoner, he opens the door wide to manipulation by the religious leaders. They use the crowd to enforce their hatred of Jesus and continually pressure Pilate further. This is a striking image of how power, fear, and social pressure can suppress truth and justice.

2. The Irony of the Scene: See, the Man!

The words “See, the man!” (John 19:5) are full of irony and profound meaning:

• For Pilate, they are probably an attempt to calm the crowd by presenting Jesus in his humiliated and mocked form. Pilate plays on the people’s pity to achieve Jesus’ release.

• From a theological perspective, however, the words resonate differently. They evoke the humanity and suffering of Jesus, who in this humiliating depiction is simultaneously the true King and Savior. Jesus wears a crown of thorns, a symbol of the curse of sin (Genesis 3:18), and a purple garment, representing both royal dignity and mockery. This portrayal prophetically points to his sacrifice.

3. The Lamb of God in the Garb of a King

The scene inevitably reminds the reader of John 1:29: “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” While Pilate presents Jesus mockingly as the “Man,” the believing reader sees more: Jesus is the Lamb of God who willingly takes the path of suffering and humiliation to redeem the world. In the parody of a royal ritual, we recognize the truth: Jesus is the true King whose reign is not of this world (John 18:36).

4. The Tragedy of Hatred and Rejection

The rejection of Jesus by the religious leaders and the people shows the depth of the human heart, marked by pride, fear, and hatred. The leaders, who were supposed to await the coming Messiah, instead choose a criminal (Barabbas) and declare that they have no other king but Caesar. In doing so, they betray not only their national convictions but also their spiritual identity. Their hatred for Jesus is so great that they are willing to sacrifice everything to get rid of him.

5. Meaning for Our Faith and Daily Life

This scene invites us to examine our own hearts:

• How do we handle the truth? Pilate recognizes Jesus’ innocence but ultimately gives in to pressure. Are we willing to stand up for the truth, even when it becomes uncomfortable?

• How do we approach Jesus? Do we see him as the true King, or do we let ourselves be guided by prejudices and societal influences, as the crowd did?

• Where do we set our loyalty? The leaders declared that they have no king but Caesar. To whom or what do we give priority in our lives – Christ or worldly powers?

Conclusion

“See, the man!” is not just Roman mockery but a call to recognize Jesus in his humanity and divinity. He is the true King who humbled himself to bear the sin of the world. The scene challenges us to recognize the truth about Jesus and to follow him with devotion, even if it costs us something. It is a call to consider the love and sacrifice of Christ and to align our faith and daily lives accordingly.

 

How Dreadful: A Pagan ruler wants to release Jesus, while the spiritual leaders of the nation, who should have recognized him, instead want to crucify him! What lessons can we draw from this?

This dreadful scene, in which a pagan ruler shows more hesitation in condemning Jesus than the spiritual leaders who should have recognized him, offers us valuable lessons for our own lives and faith:

1. Beware of Religious Pride

The religious leaders were convinced that they were in the right because they were the guardians of the law and tradition. But their pride and self-righteousness led them to not recognize the truth, even though it stood right before them.

• Lesson: We should beware of placing our knowledge or religious achievements above the humility and openness necessary to recognize God’s truth. Faith is not just a matter of knowledge but of the heart.

2. Religion Without Love Leads to Cruelty

The leaders were willing to crucify Jesus because he did not fit their image of a Messiah. Their adherence to the law was driven by hatred, envy, and fear of losing power.

• Lesson: Religion without love and mercy can be destructive. A faith not permeated by God’s love can hurt people and lead them astray. Our faith should lead us to promote and protect life, not destroy it.

3. The Danger of Groupthink

The crowd blindly followed the religious leaders and called for Jesus’ crucifixion, even though he was innocent. They were manipulated and acted out of fear, pressure, or peer pressure.

• Lesson: We should critically question whom or what we follow, especially when the majority agrees in one direction. Our faith should be based on the truth in Christ, not on others’ opinions or societal pressure.

4. Secular Faith Can Seem Morally Superior

Pilate, though pagan and motivated by power interests, shows more willingness to respect the truth than the religious leaders. This is a warning that religious people are not automatically morally superior.

• Lesson: We should beware of seeing our religious life as a guarantee of moral righteousness. True justice is shown in our behavior, in love, compassion, and the willingness to stand up for the truth.

5. The Danger of Power and Control

The religious leaders were so intent on protecting their authority that they were willing to sacrifice their own values and beliefs. They even declared, “We have no king but Caesar” (John 19:15) – a shocking abandonment of their belief in God as King.

• Lesson: Power and control can blind us to the truth. We should always ask ourselves whether our actions honor God or if we are trying to advance our own interests.

6. Openness to God’s Truth

The religious leaders had studied the scriptures for years and awaited the Messiah, but when he came, they did not recognize him. Their hearts were closed because Jesus did not meet their expectations.

• Lesson: We should remain open to God’s truth, even if it does not align with our expectations. God often acts differently than we expect – and therein lies his wisdom and grace.

7. The Power of Personal Faith

Pilate was driven by external constraints and let the truth go, even though he recognized it. The religious leaders, on the other hand, should have acted out of their faith but acted out of self-interest.

• Lesson: Our faith should be so deep and authentic that we are willing to stand up for the truth even in difficult moments. It takes courage to put God’s will above personal or societal advantages.

Summary

This story shows how easily religious pride, lust for power, and group pressure can lead to missing the truth. For us, this means that we should live in humility and love, continually examine our faith, and let the truth in Jesus Christ guide us. Only then can we avoid making the same mistakes as the leaders of that time – and instead be witnesses to the truth.

The scene in which Pilate presents Jesus and lets the crowd decide his release contains profound lessons that are relevant for our daily lives and faith. It shows how power, group pressure, and religious pride can obscure the truth – challenges that are also present in our everyday lives.

Practical Lessons for Daily Life

1. Courage to Speak the Truth in Difficult Moments

Pilate knew that Jesus was innocent, but he did not act according to his conviction. His fear of the consequences led him to suppress the truth.

• Daily Relevance: How often do we face the decision to stand up for the truth but risk rejection or consequences? In such moments, we can remember Jesus as the true King who gives us the strength to do what is right.

2. Dealing with Prejudices

The religious leaders rejected Jesus because he did not fit their expectations. Their entrenched opinions left no room for God’s work.

• Daily Relevance: We too tend to judge people or situations based on our expectations. This story invites us to remain open to God’s surprising actions and not be guided by prejudices.

3. Examining Loyalty

The leaders declared, “no king but Caesar,” thereby betraying their true loyalty. They placed their political interests above their faith.

• Daily Relevance: To whom or what are we loyal? Are we truly following Jesus, or are we letting worldly values like success, power, or recognition guide us? We should continually ask ourselves this question, especially in conflict situations.

4. Responsibility in Communities

The crowd was manipulated by the leaders and called for Jesus’ crucifixion, even though they might have had doubts themselves.

• Daily Relevance: Group pressure and societal pressure can influence our judgment. This story challenges us to think independently and not blindly follow the majority pressure. We should align our actions with Jesus’ example.

5. Faith with Love Instead of Dogmatism

The leaders were willing to kill Jesus to protect their power and traditions. Their religion had become a cold institution lacking love and compassion.

• Daily Relevance: Our faith should not be based only on rules but be characterized by love and mercy. The love of Christ should guide our actions and make us instruments of peace.

6. The Power of Personal Faith

Pilate was driven by his fear, the leaders by their hatred. Both let the truth go, even though it was evident.

• Daily Relevance: Our personal faith should be deeply rooted so that in difficult moments we can trust in God’s truth instead of being driven by fear or hatred.

7. The True Meaning of “See, the Man!”

Pilate’s words “See, the man!” invite us to see Jesus not only as the suffering King but as someone who shares our humanity and bears our burdens.

• Daily Relevance: This scene reminds us that Jesus knows our struggles and suffering. In moments of weakness, we can entrust ourselves to him and trust that he is our true King and Savior.

Final Summary

The irony of this story is often reflected in our daily lives: we recognize the truth but do not act accordingly; we follow prejudices or the pressure of the majority. This scene encourages us to examine our actions and our faith, to courageously stand up for the truth, and to align ourselves with Jesus Christ in love and mercy. Thus, we can be witnesses to his truth and grace in our daily lives.

In the humility and suffering of Jesus, we recognize the true King who gives himself for us and shows us what real love means.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-12-2-behold-the-man-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 16, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 6

¹ Dare any of you, having a matter against another, go to law before the unjust, and not before the saints?

² Do ye not know that the saints shall judge the world? and if the world shall be judged by you, are ye unworthy to judge the smallest matters?

³ Know ye not that we shall judge angels? how much more things that pertain to this life?

⁴ If then ye have judgments of things pertaining to this life, set them to judge who are least esteemed in the church.

⁵ I speak to your shame. Is it so, that there is not a wise man among you? no, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren?

⁶ But brother goeth to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers.

⁷ Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because ye go to law one with another. Why do ye not rather take wrong? why do ye not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?

⁸ Nay, ye do wrong, and defraud, and that your brethren.

⁹ Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,

¹⁰ Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.

¹¹ And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.

¹² All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

¹³ Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.

¹⁴ And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power.

¹⁵ Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.

¹⁶ What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.

¹⁷ But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

¹⁸ Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

¹⁹ What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

²⁰ For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction

The sixth chapter of the First Letter to the Corinthians addresses two central themes that are vital for Christian life and community: handling disputes within the church and the sanctity of the body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. Paul speaks firmly to the Corinthians, urging them to recognize their calling to holiness and unity in Christ. He exhorts them to align their behavior, both in their interactions with one another and in their personal conduct, with the grace and righteousness of God. This chapter serves as a powerful reminder that Christians are called to reflect Christ’s lordship in every aspect of their lives.

Commentary

In the opening verses of the chapter, Paul challenges the Corinthians by asking how it is possible for disputes between believers to be taken before secular courts instead of being resolved within the community of faith. He emphasizes that the saints, who will one day judge the world and even angels, should be capable of settling everyday matters. By pointing out the spiritual calling of the believers, Paul sharply criticizes the practice of seeking judgments from secular courts and rhetorically questions whether there truly isn’t a single wise person in the church capable of mediating such conflicts. His appeal aims to move the Corinthians toward an attitude of humility and forbearance. Rather than litigating, Paul argues, it would be better to endure injustice or be disadvantaged than to compromise the witness of the Christian community.

In the second part of the chapter, Paul shifts the focus to the personal holiness of the believers. He reminds them that their bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, received from God. Emphasizing the binding nature of their redemption through Jesus Christ, Paul calls on the believers to honor God through their way of life. He particularly highlights the warning against sexual immorality, explaining that sexual sin is not only a sin against others but also against one’s own body, which belongs to Christ. This exhortation is tied to the concept that believers have been “bought at a price” and should, therefore, glorify God in both body and spirit.

The chapter underscores the importance of preserving both communal unity and personal integrity. It illustrates the high calling of believers to live lives that reflect the grace of God and highlights the consequences of neglecting this calling.

Summary

1 Corinthians 6 reminds believers to resolve their disputes within the Christian community rather than taking them to secular courts. Paul emphasizes the believers’ calling to live as saints, who will one day judge the world. He asserts that it is better to endure wrongdoing than to damage the church’s testimony. In the second part, Paul issues a strong warning against sexual immorality, stressing that the bodies of believers are temples of the Holy Spirit. Believers are urged to view their bodies and spirits as belonging to God, having been bought at a high price through Christ. The chapter calls the church to a holy, God-fearing lifestyle that reflects the unity and purity of the believers.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/16-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-6-believe-his-prophets/

Lesson 12.The Hour of Glory: The Cross and Resurrection
The Cross and the Resurrection: The Turning Point of History

Lesson 12 leads us to the pinnacle of the Christian faith: the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. These central events of salvation history reveal in their depth God’s love, justice, and power. At the cross, Jesus completes His work of redemption by bearing the punishment for our sins and opening the way to God. Through His resurrection, He triumphs over death and gives us a living hope for new life.

This lesson invites us to understand the significance of the cross and resurrection not only intellectually but also to experience them in our personal faith and daily lives. It reminds us that Jesus’ sacrifice brings us peace and forgiveness, and His resurrection forms the foundation for our hope and trust in God’s promises.

12.1 What is Truth?
The Truth Stands Before Us: Pilate’s Missed Opportunity

Read John 18:33–38. What are Pilate and Jesus discussing?

In John 18:33–38, we witness a profound confrontation between Pilate and Jesus that goes far beyond immediate political and legal questions. It is remarkable how Jesus steers the conversation to challenge Pilate to engage with the truth.

Pilate first asks if Jesus is the King of the Jews. This is not merely a political question; it opens the door to a much greater reality. Jesus does not answer directly but asks Pilate whether he has come to testify to the truth or if he seeks to test Him. With this turn, Jesus invites Pilate to reflect and question the source of his judgment. This shows that truth cannot be defined solely by external reports or opinions but requires inner recognition.

However, Pilate’s reaction reveals a typical human weakness: he avoids confronting the truth. His irritated follow-up question (“Am I a Jew?”) shows that he distances himself from the personal significance of this question. Instead of seeking answers, he is guided by prejudices and societal pressure.

Jesus seizes the opportunity to reveal a crucial truth: His kingdom is not of this world, and He has come to testify to the truth. This truth is not abstract but personal: everyone who is from the truth hears His voice. Thus, Jesus makes it clear that truth is not just a philosophical concept but takes shape in Himself. He is the truth (John 14:6), and in Him shines the light that overcomes darkness (John 1:5).

Pilate’s question, “What is truth?” remains unanswered because he does not wait to hear it. This is a tragic moment: Pilate stands before the embodiment of truth, yet he withdraws. His prejudices, internal conflict, and external pressures prevent him from recognizing the truth.

The Gospel of John repeatedly emphasizes that the truth is found in Jesus. However, Pilate misses the opportunity to experience this truth because he cannot free himself from his fears and prejudices. For us, this is an invitation to overcome our own prejudices and fears to seek and embrace the truth in Jesus. The question, “What is truth?” remains relevant today and requires courage, patience, and openness to find the answer.

How do you understand the concept of Jesus as the truth?

The concept of Jesus as the truth is deeply rooted in Christian theology and reveals the unique relationship between God, humanity, and reality itself. In the Gospel of John, this idea is particularly emphasized, and I understand it in several interconnected dimensions:

1. Jesus as the Embodiment of Divine Truth

   • Jesus is described as “the Word” who “became flesh” (John 1:14). He is the perfect revelation of God through whom people can recognize the truth about God, their own existence, and the way to redemption.

   • This truth is not only intellectual or philosophical but a living reality manifested in Jesus. Through His life, teachings, death, and resurrection, Jesus reveals the true nature of God: love, grace, justice, and holiness.

2. Truth as Relationship, Not Just Knowledge

   • Jesus says in John 14:6, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.” This indicates that truth lies in a relationship with Him. It is not merely a concept that can be understood intellectually but a reality experienced in communion with Him.

   • Those “from the truth” recognize His voice (John 18:37). This means there must be an inner willingness to be led by Jesus to grasp the truth.

3. Truth as a Liberating Force

   • In John 8:32, it says, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” This truth in Jesus frees us from the chains of error, sin, and fear. It realigns humanity, frees us from false notions about God, ourselves, and the world, and gives us the opportunity to live in an authentic relationship with God.

4. Truth as Light in Darkness

   • The Gospel of John often contrasts truth with darkness and error. Jesus, the light of the world (John 8:12), brings a truth that illuminates darkness. He exposes the lies of evil and reveals humanity’s true purpose: communion with God.

5. Jesus as Truth in the Context of Life and Death

   • On the cross, Jesus demonstrates the ultimate truth about God’s love and the nature of redemption. His words, “It is finished” (John 19:30), mark not only the completion of His work but also the affirmation that everything He said and did is true.

   • Through His resurrection, Jesus attests that God’s truth is not only philosophical or moral but has the power to overcome death and grant new life.

6. Truth as a Challenge

   • The encounter between Jesus and Pilate in John 18 shows that truth can be uncomfortable. Pilate asks, “What is truth?” without genuinely wanting the answer. This scene reminds us that truth often presents a challenge, questioning our prejudices, fears, and desire for control.

Conclusion:

Jesus as the truth means that He is the absolute and ultimate revelation of God’s nature, plan, and love. This truth is not something we comprehend only intellectually but something that is meant to transform our lives. In Jesus, truth is not just spoken but lived and experienced, and it calls us to live in authentic relationship with God and to see the world in His light.

The connection between the concept of Jesus as the truth and our everyday life and faith lies in the practical and personal impact that this truth has on our thinking, actions, and our relationship with God and others. Here are some concrete approaches:

1. Truth as Guidance in Daily Life

Jesus as the truth provides clear guidance in a world full of conflicting opinions and values. His life, teachings, and example serve as our compass to make decisions characterized by love, justice, and humility. In daily life, this means:

• Our words and actions should be marked by honesty, as Jesus Himself is the truth.

• We can trust that Jesus will guide us in difficult situations when we are inspired by His truth.

Example: When facing a difficult decision, we can ask ourselves, “Does this choice align with what Jesus taught and lived?”

2. Truth as Liberation from Fears and False Notions

Jesus says in John 8:32, “The truth will set you free.” His truth frees us from the burdens of guilt, fear, and self-deception. It allows us to see ourselves and others as God sees us—with love and grace.

• We no longer need to try to justify ourselves before God or others but can live in the freedom that the truth in Christ brings.

• The truth of Christ also helps us shed the false identities imposed by the world (e.g., pressure to perform, consumerism, social comparisons).

Example: In daily life, this can mean not being dependent on others’ opinions but living in the assurance that we are accepted and loved in Jesus.

3. Truth as the Foundation for Relationships

Jesus teaches that genuine relationships must be based on truth and love. Relationships marked by dishonesty or selfish motives cannot endure. His truth calls us to:

• Address conflicts with truth and love instead of ignoring or sugarcoating them.

• Practice forgiveness because Jesus has shown us the truth about God’s infinite forgiveness.

Example: In a difficult relationship situation, we might ask ourselves, “Am I willing to be open and truthful while also acting in love?”

4. Truth as Light in Darkness and Doubt

In daily life, we often experience uncertainty, doubt, or moments when we feel lost. Jesus as the light and truth (John 8:12) offers guidance and hope:

• In moments of doubt, we can turn to Jesus, who shows us His truth—whether through the Bible, prayer, or fellowship with other believers.

• His truth brings clarity and peace where there is confusion and worry.

Example: When facing a challenging life situation, we can turn to Jesus and trust that His truth will show us the next step.

5. Truth as Active Faith

The truth in Jesus is not only a recognition but a power that transforms our lives. It calls us to testify to this truth through our actions:

• Promote justice where there is injustice.

• Stand up for the truth, even when it is uncomfortable.

• Live out our faith actively by advocating for others and embodying God’s love.

Example: In the workplace or school, we can advocate for integrity, even when it would be easier to compromise.

6. Truth as a Challenge

As Pilate demonstrates, truth can be uncomfortable. It challenges our prejudices, fears, and habits. Jesus calls us to confront the truth, even if it means questioning ourselves:

• Are we willing to be corrected by God’s truth?

• Are we ready to be guided by Jesus’ truth, even when it goes against societal norms or personal convenience?

Example: When confronted with injustice, we might ask ourselves, “Am I standing up for the truth, even if it brings disadvantages to me?”

Conclusion:

The truth in Jesus Christ is not merely a theological concept but a transformative power for our daily lives. It provides guidance, frees us from false notions, strengthens our relationships, offers hope in dark times, and challenges us to live a courageous, active faith. When we embrace Jesus’ truth, we experience not only inner peace but also become witnesses of this truth in the world.

Truth is not just a concept but a person— in Jesus, we encounter the living truth that changes our lives.

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/lesson-12-the-hour-of-glory-the-cross-and-resurrection-12-1-what-is-truth-themes-in-the-gospel-of-john-living-faith/

December 15, 2024

DAILY BIBLE READING – 1 Corinthians Chapter 5

¹ It is reported commonly that there is fornication among you, and such fornication as is not so much as named among the Gentiles, that one should have his father’s wife.

² And ye are puffed up, and have not rather mourned, that he that hath done this deed might be taken away from among you.

³ For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,

⁴ In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

⁵ To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus.

⁶ Your glorying is not good. Know ye not that a little leaven leaveneth the whole lump?

⁷ Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:

⁸ Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, neither with the leaven of malice and wickedness; but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.

⁹ I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators:

¹⁰ Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extortioners, or with idolaters; for then must ye needs go out of the world.

¹¹ But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolator, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.

¹² For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?

¹³ But them that are without God judgeth. Therefore put away from among yourselves that wicked person.

King James Version. Public Domain

 

Commentary

Introduction:

The fifth chapter of the First Epistle to the Corinthians addresses the handling of serious sin within the church. Paul deals with a case of sexual immorality that is even unacceptable by non-Christian standards. He admonishes the Corinthians not to be proud or indifferent but to decisively confront this sin in order to preserve the purity and holiness of the community. The chapter provides valuable insights into the necessity of spiritual discipline, the protection of the church, and the importance of holiness in Christian life.

Commentary:

Resolute Handling of Sin (Verses 1-5)
Paul speaks of an atrocious sin within the church: a man has his father’s wife. He criticizes the Corinthians for their pride and indifference instead of feeling sorrow and taking action. Paul urges the congregation to act in the authority of Christ and to expel the offender from the community. This drastic measure, “handing him over to Satan,” serves not only to cleanse the church but also aims to lead the sinner to repentance and spiritual salvation.

The Image of Leaven (Verses 6-8)
Paul uses the image of leaven to illustrate how a small sin can affect the entire community. Old leaven represents malice and sin that must be removed from the church to keep it “unleavened”—a symbol of holiness and purity. Christ, the sacrificed Passover Lamb, is the foundation of this purity, and the church is called to live in purity and truth.

Separation from Sinful Brothers (Verses 9-13)
Paul distinguishes between relationships with unbelieving sinners and those who call themselves Christians but continue in persistent sinful behavior. While contact with people outside the church is inevitable, Paul calls for the intolerance of sinful “brothers” to maintain the church’s purity. The exclusion of such a member is meant to protect the community and acknowledge the divine judgment reserved for those outside the church.

Summary:

In the fifth chapter of the First Epistle to the Corinthians, Paul urges the church to take decisive action against serious sin within its ranks. He emphasizes the community’s responsibility to preserve its purity and uses the image of leaven to illustrate the impact of sin. By excluding the sinner, not only is the church protected, but the individual is also led to repentance. Paul makes it clear that spiritual discipline is an expression of the church’s holiness and its responsibility before God. This chapter reminds believers to uphold the church’s holiness, observe the boundaries of tolerance, and live in purity and truth.

 

 

Source: https://fulfilleddesire.net/15-11-2024-1-corinthians-chapter-5-believe-his-prophets/