Judge

Scripture Reading 5:9-13

But now I am writing 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. What business is it of mine to judge those outside the church? Are you not to judge those inside? God will judge those outside. "Expel the wicked man from among you."

Observation

Paul having told them to deal with sin with in their community goes on with a strong challenge. Judge those who claim to be Christian and then live lives that are sinful. We often find it easy to point the finger at the world; their immorality is often in plain view for all to see. But we are not so quick to dig out sin in the church and when we are if it not always so easy to see. Paul here clearly states that our task is to judge sin in the church not those outside of the church. The list of sin is going to be tough for many of us! We are happy to deal with the big one that starts off this list, but how about greedy? Can you wear that? Have you ever spoken slanderously about someone, had too much to drink, are all of your interactions above reproach? Paul lists these together with what we call the big sins. How well do you compare when the analysis is done on your life?

Application

Prayerfully take time to think through your life, does it stand against the list of sins? Ask your self are you aware of sin in your life, or the life of another believer? If so with the support of other mature Christians, address these sins.

Prayer

Lord God, search me deep down in the inner most parts of my life. Give me the strength to address the sin in my life and the life of your church, may your Holy Spirit flood my life with its cleansing power and grace.