How can we identify and remove "wickedness" from our community today? Key Verse “God will judge those outside. ‘Expel the wicked man from among you.’” (1 Corinthians 5:13) Understanding “Wickedness” • Wickedness is any attitude, action, or teaching that contradicts God’s revealed commands (Isaiah 5:20; 1 John 3:4). • Scripture treats it as a corrupting influence that spreads if not removed (1 Corinthians 5:6). • Because God’s Word is wholly true, the command to “expel” is not optional but a literal directive for His people. Why Wickedness Must Be Addressed • It dishonors God’s name among unbelievers (Romans 2:23-24). • It quenches the Spirit’s work in the body (Ephesians 4:30). • It endangers the eternal state of the offender and those influenced (Galatians 6:7-8; Jude 23). • It robs the community of blessing and protection (Joshua 7:11-12). Identifying Wickedness in Our Community Today Look for persistent, unrepented patterns that Scripture labels sinful: • Sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 6:9-10) • Idolatry—trusting anything above God (1 John 5:21) • False teaching that denies core doctrines (2 Peter 2:1-3) • Exploitation and injustice (Isaiah 10:1-2) • Slander, gossip, divisiveness (Titus 3:10-11) • Habitual drunkenness or substance abuse (Ephesians 5:18) • Greed and material oppression (James 5:1-5) • Unforgiving, hateful attitudes (1 John 3:15) Practical Steps for Discernment • Measure everything against Scripture (Acts 17:11). • Examine the fruit of lives and teachings (Matthew 7:16-20). • Pray for wisdom and watchfulness (Colossians 4:2). • “Test the spirits” to see whether they are from God (1 John 4:1). • Invite mature believers into accountability conversations (Proverbs 27:17). Biblical Process to Remove Wickedness 1. Private confrontation aimed at repentance (Matthew 18:15). 2. Confirmation by two or three witnesses if no change (Matthew 18:16). 3. Inform the assembly and call for repentance (Matthew 18:17a). 4. If still unrepentant, remove fellowship—treat “as a pagan or tax collector” (Matthew 18:17b; 1 Corinthians 5:5, 13). 5. Continue praying and seeking restoration when genuine repentance occurs (2 Corinthians 2:6-8). Guarding Against Hypocrisy • Regular self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). • Confession and cleansing through Christ’s blood (1 John 1:9). • Cultivating humility—remembering we, too, were rescued (Titus 3:3-7). • Resting in grace while upholding truth (John 1:14). Maintaining Purity Going Forward • Teach sound doctrine consistently (2 Timothy 4:2-3). • Foster transparent relationships and mutual accountability (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Disciple new believers in obedience to all Jesus commanded (Matthew 28:20). • Practice corporate worship, prayer, and the Lord’s Supper, which keep hearts tender (Acts 2:42-47). • Stay alert; “a little leaven leavens the whole batch” (1 Corinthians 5:6). |
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