Central Truth

Discipline and boundaries are necessary, even in the church.

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Reflections

One of the essential roles of a parent is to set boundaries and enforce discipline. Early in a child's life parents will caution, "Don't play in the street!"

Later, as the youngster goes off to school the parameter is "Get your homework done before you watch TV." When the child becomes a teen there are driving restrictions and curfews. For the long term good of their child, good and loving parents will enforce discipline if boundaries are violated. So it is in the church.

In this passage Paul urges the church to discipline a member by excommunicating him. This is to be done for his own ultimate good and the good of the church. This member was violating a strong boundary of sin in an unrepentant and egregious manner. He was committing incest and the church was very accepting in its response. Not good.

Paul additionally paints a word picture in 1 Corinthians 5:6-8 to further illustrate his point. He compares the effect of a small thing, yeast, permeating the larger bread dough, to a small sin in a one church member permeating the whole church. Not good. Just as healthy families need boundaries, the church needs them too.

 

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Discussion Questions

1. Is the modern church too "grace oriented" to enforce discipline?
2. What boundaries should the church set in today's permissive society?
3. How should we as church members guard our actions to protect the church?
4. Are there areas in your life where you need to act decisively to keep "little" sins from overwhelming your personal walk with God?

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