Every organization has standards that define who belongs—and the church is no different. But unlike the world, when the church practices discipline, it’s not about punishment—it’s about love, protection, and restoration. In this episode, we examine Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 5 to understand how church discipline operates, its necessity, and what it reveals about God’s heart for His people.

I. The Church Is Commanded to Discipline Wayward Members (vv. 1–5)

Paul confronts a case of open sin in the Corinthian church—something even unbelievers found shocking. Paul reminds them that the loving response is not to ignore sin but to address it. Jesus gave the same instruction in Matthew 18: if someone refuses to repent after patient correction, the church must separate from them. The purpose isn’t punishment but restoration—“so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord.” Church discipline is an act of love that protects both the sinner and the church from greater harm.

II. If We Try to Spare the One, We Damage the Many (vv. 6–8)

Paul warns, “A little leaven leavens the whole lump.” Just as yeast spreads through dough, unchecked sin spreads through a congregation. Allowing sin to continue sends the message that holiness doesn’t matter. But because Christ, our Passover Lamb, has already cleansed us, we’re called to live as people of sincerity and truth. Confronting sin isn’t about shame—it’s about helping one another live in the freedom Jesus purchased for us.

III. The Church Must Be Identified by What It Condones (vv. 9–13)

Paul draws a clear line between the world and the church: we don’t judge outsiders, but we are responsible for one another inside the body. When practiced rightly, church discipline strengthens the church’s witness, protects its members, and displays God’s holiness to the world.

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