When in Corinth

Today’s reading: 1 Corinthians 5

“When you are assembled in the name of the Lord Jesus and my spirit is present, with the power of our Lord Jesus, you are to deliver this man to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭5:4-5‬ ‭ESV‬‬

Corinth, from its beginning, was known for their sexual confusion. In Classical Greek, when a writer would use “Act Corinthian,” it was synonymous with saying, “Practice sexual immorality.” 

So as shocking as it is for us to read here about a man sleeping with his stepmom, these things were commonplace in Corinth. Paul wasn’t going to stand by and let them blend into the culture that surrounded them. He wanted them to remember Jesus’ sacrifice and let that drive them toward purity and truth (see verse 7).

When it comes to sexuality, who are we taking our cues from? The world will always be permissive, insisting that it isn’t a big deal. Jesus calls us to holiness, a better way to live.

Also, notice Paul’s goal. It isn’t to see this man shamed and shunned. The goal is to see him redeemed and restored. May this be our goal as well!