LITTLE LEAVEN (IV)
“So when you are assembled and I am with you in spirit, and the power of our Lord Jesus is present, hand this man over to Satan for the destruction of the flesh, so that his spirit may be saved on the day of the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 5:4-5 NIV
The phrase “hand this man over to Satan” can seem shockingly severe, especially coming from the church.
However, Paul’s intent behind this instruction is not punishment for the sake of punishment, but rather to bring about repentance and restoration.
The ultimate goal is for sinful behaviors to be purged by allowing the person to face the consequences of their actions, with the hope that it will lead them back to a place of healing and renewal.When behaviors such as immorality or various forms of sin are left unchecked, they spread.
Sin, after all, can often be appealing, and it becomes even more tempting when it appears to go unpunished. As children of God, we must recognize the danger of anything that threatens the unity of the church. Where there is unity in spirit and purpose, the Lord commands a blessing (Psalm 133:3). Such unity must be fiercely protected, and any evil that threatens it should be purged—but always with the goal of restoring those who are repentant.
Praise God for His grace!
Prayer: Father, I thank You for this truth. Teach me to discern and apply wisdom with grace when correcting my brothers and sisters. Softly open my heart to receive correction when it comes my way, knowing that the wounds of a friend are faithful, while the praises of an enemy are deceitful. May this grace be evident in my life, to the glory of Your name. Amen!
CI.
