Grace, Mercy and Sin

1 Corinthians 5
"But now I am writing to you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat" (1 Corinthians 5:11).

The operative word here is "brother." This admonition is directed toward a body of believers, who has in their fellowship someone who confesses Christ and at the same time is living in sin which s/he is 'proud of' - which s/he is publicly open about, reveals that s/he knows it is sin, and has every intention to continue in it.

This is not directed to believers who have in fellowship someone who is struggling with (a) sin which is debilitating, in which s/he is broken over and is seeking to put away, but hasn't been able to, as of yet. Otherwise, all of us, at one point or another would find ourselves outcast. This is not about judging the heart or motivation or intention of someone; it isn't about being legalistic or ungracious or unmerciful. This is not about categorizing people and dividing people. This is not about not associating with people who do not profess Christ - who are in sin.

One commentary has this to say about this verse: "Paul makes it clear that we should not disassociate ourselves from unbelievers - otherwise, we could not carry out Christ's command to tell them about salvation (Matt. 28:18-19). But we are to distance ourselves from the person who claims to be a Christian, yet indulges in sins explicitly forbidden in Scripture and then rationalizes his or her actions. By rationalizing sin, a person harms others for whom Christ died and dims the image of God in himself or herself... Church leaders must be ready to correct, in love, for the sake of spiritual unity" (p2068, NIV Life Application Bible).

"God, help us by Your Spirit to walk in such a way that reveals growth, healing, and wholeness in You; individually and corporately. Help us to be People of Presence - people who are filled with Your Spirit - who evidence Your Fruit - Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Gentleness, Faithfulness, and Self-Control (Galatians 5:22). We then will be able to act loving - according to Your Love - to all around us - within and outside the body of Christ. Thank You Lord."