1Corinthians 5

Scripture
1Corinthians 5
Verse 11 What I meant was that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a Christian yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or a drunkard, or a swindler. Don't even eat with such people.



Observation
This chapter starts by Paul stating he has heard about a situation regarding a man in their church that is living in sin. Paul is very direct about what the church is to do. If fellow Christians are indulging in these sorts of sins then we are to distance ourselves from them. My first thought to this verse was - Wow! That is harsh!

The world outside of the church is filled with all these kinds of lifestyles and sins, as Christians we are to embrace and love everyone no matter who they are, what they have done, or what they are doing now. This chapter, however, discusses that if someone within the church is committing these sins then we are to distance ourselves from that person. But why?

When we go to church we are looking to worship God, learn about the Word of God, and be a part of a community. It should be viewed as our escape from the evil and sin of the world. It should be a reflection of the holiness of God, a place that we can come to be refreshed, revived, and restored. If sins are a part of the fellowship and those sins are never dealt with how are we to learn how to live more godly lives. If we do not deal with the sin, or if we allow our church to view certain sins as normal and accepted then we will become too tolerant and indifferent to sins in our own lives.


Application
We need to deal with fellow Christians who continue to live with sin in their lives. Of course we should help them in any way we can through prayer, counselling or whatever else they may need to overcome their sin.


Prayer
Lord, please help us all to become less tolerant of sin within ourselves and within the church. Give us the power to overcome those sins. Help us to keep the church pure so that we can come to receive the wonderful refreshment and peace that you offer.