What does 1 Corinthians 5:12 mean?

For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within? 1 Corinthians 5:12

Explanation

1 Corinthians 5:12 asks a rhetorical question that underscores the responsibility of the Christian community to judge the behavior of its members, as opposed to judging those outside the faith. The Apostle Paul is making a distinction between the church, who are “within,” and those who are not part of the Christian community, “without.” He implies that it is not the church’s role to judge those outside its community because they are not under the same covenant or moral expectations. Instead, the focus should be on self-regulation within the church to ensure that its members are living according to Christian teachings.

Historical Context

This verse comes from Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians, a community in ancient Greece. The letter addresses various issues that Paul learned about through reports and letters from the church’s members. The city of Corinth was a cosmopolitan center, with a reputation for sexual immorality and pagan practices, which infiltrated the Christian community. In earlier verses of chapter 5, Paul discusses a case of sexual immorality within the church and the congregation’s failure to properly address the situation. The call for judgment within the church reflects the need to distinguish Christian behavior from the prevalent practices in Corinthian society.

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Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse highlights the principle of church discipline. The implication is that the Christian church has a mandate to uphold certain standards among its members, differentiating itself from broader society. While theological interpretations vary, some view this call to internal judgment as a way of preserving the sanctity of the church and encouraging repentance and redemption among its members. Other denominations might focus less on judgment and more on the role of the community in supporting and restoring individuals who stumble.

Practical Applications

This verse can apply to modern-day church life in various ways. It serves as a reminder that while Christian individuals and communities should be concerned about the welfare of all people, their priority is self-governance according to Christian ethics. Congregations might interpret this verse as a call to hold each other accountable in a spirit of love and restoration, rather than punitive judgment. It also warns against hypocrisy – judging others for behaviors that are tolerated within the church.

Cross-References

  • Matthew 18:15-17: “Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee, go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.”
  • 1 Peter 4:17: “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?”
  • 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15: “And if any man obey not our word by this epistle, note that man, and have no company with him, that he may be ashamed.”

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of 1 Corinthians 5:12 provide deeper insight:

  • “Judge” (krinō): In this context, it means to discern, decide, or judge concerning the rectitude of someone’s behavior.
  • “Without” (ektos): Literally means “outside” and refers to those not part of the Christian community.
  • “Within” (esō): Refers to those inside the community, implying a boundary or distinction between church members and others.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the ancient world, including in Greco-Roman and Jewish societies, community cohesion and maintaining social norms were critical. Various religious and cultural groups had systems for dealing with those who violated communal norms. This concept of internal judgment and discipline is not unique to Christianity; Jewish communities had their own councils, and Greco-Roman societies had mechanisms to address civic wrongdoing. Paul’s teaching mirrors, yet adapts, this broader societal practice to fit the nascent Christian community’s needs.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives may not directly relate to the process of moral judgment within a religious community. However, psychology and sociology study group dynamics and ethical behavior, providing insights into how norms are enforced within any given group. These disciplines might explore the effects of in-group judgment on individual behavior and group cohesion, potentially supporting the value of accountability in maintaining the social order and moral integrity.

Commentaries

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 5:12 varies among biblical scholars:

  • Some emphasize the distinction between judging those within the church versus those outside, noting that this reflects Paul’s pastoral concern for the spiritual health of the community.
  • Others focus on the implicit critique of the Corinthian church’s failure to act, viewing it as an exhortation to exercise proper church discipline.
  • Additional scholarly discussions might examine the implications for modern applications of church discipline and how this principle relates to broader societal justice and moral standards.

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