How can we implement the authority given in 1 Corinthians 5:4 today? Setting the Scene “ When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus …” (1 Corinthians 5:4) Paul ties three realities together: a gathered church, the name (authority) of Christ, and the power of Christ. That three-fold cord still holds today. Key Truths That Never Change • The congregation, not a lone leader, acts (v. 4 “when you are assembled”). • The action rests on Christ’s authority (“in the name of our Lord Jesus”). • Spiritual power accompanies obedience (“with the power of our Lord Jesus”). • The aim is redemption, not humiliation (v. 5 “so that his spirit may be saved”). Translating Paul’s Instructions into Today’s Practice 1. Assemble intentionally • Schedule a members’ meeting specifically for discipline matters. • Ensure the facts of unrepentant sin are established (v. 1; cf. Deuteronomy 19:15). 2. Act corporately in Christ’s name • The gathered body votes or affirms the decision (cf. 2 Corinthians 2:6 “this punishment by the majority”). • Leaders guide; the congregation owns the action (Hebrews 13:17; 1 Peter 5:2-3). 3. Announce the judgment with gravity and clarity • State the charge, the biblical standard violated, and the person’s refusal to repent. • Declare removal from membership and bar from the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 5:11). 4. Maintain loving separation • No social fellowship that blurs the seriousness of sin (v. 11 “do not even eat with such a man”). • Continue friendly, gospel-focused contact aimed at restoration (2 Thessalonians 3:14-15). 5. Pray and watch for repentance • Appeal for Satan’s destructive work to drive the offender back to Christ (v. 5). • Stay ready to forgive and comfort immediately upon genuine repentance (2 Corinthians 2:7-8). Helpful Guardrails • Consistency—apply the same standard to every member (James 2:1). • Humility—remember “there but for the grace of God go I” (Galatians 6:1). • Confidentiality—share only what edifies and protects (Proverbs 11:13). • Documentation—keep written records of meetings and warnings (Acts 15:23). Fruit We Can Expect • Purity in the church (1 Corinthians 5:6-8 “a little leaven leavens the whole batch”). • Fear of the Lord among believers (Acts 5:11). • A compelling witness to outsiders that sin is real and grace is powerful (Matthew 5:16). • Restoration of the offender when repentance comes (Luke 15:20). Supporting Passages for Further Study • Matthew 18:15-17—Jesus’ step-by-step process • 2 Thessalonians 3:6, 14-15—withdraw yet warn as a brother • Galatians 6:1—restore gently, watch yourself • Titus 3:10-11—reject a divisive person after two warnings • Hebrews 12:11—discipline yields “the peaceful fruit of righteousness” Summing Up Gather, act, separate, pray, restore—that rhythm embodies 1 Corinthians 5:4-5 for every generation. Christ supplies the authority; the church supplies the obedience; the Spirit supplies the power and the harvest. |
    |