Absent Acted Already Although Body Certainly Committed Decision Deed Indeed Judged Judgment Myself Passed Physically Present Pronounced Spirit Though Verily Wrought

5:3 {3} For I verily, as absent in body, but present in {a} spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, [concerning] him that hath so done this deed,

(3) Excommunication ought not to be committed to one man's power, but must be done by the authority of the whole congregation, after the matter is diligently examined.

(a) In mind, thought, and will.

5:3 For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, etc. Though absent, yet with them in spirit, Paul judged the case as present, and commanded the church as a body to take action by withdrawal at once from the evil doer.

5:3 I verily, as present in spirit - Having a full (it seems, a miraculous) view of the whole fact. Have already, as if I were actually present, judged him who hath so scandalously done this.

5:1-8 The apostle notices a flagrant abuse, winked at by the Corinthians. Party spirit, and a false notion of Christian liberty, seem to have saved the offender from censure. Grievous indeed is it that crimes should sometimes be committed by professors of the gospel, of which even heathens would be ashamed. Spiritual pride and false doctrines tend to bring in, and to spread such scandals. How dreadful the effects of sin! The devil reigns where Christ does not. And a man is in his kingdom, and under his power, when not in Christ. The bad example of a man of influence is very mischievous; it spreads far and wide. Corrupt principles and examples, if not corrected, would hurt the whole church. Believers must have new hearts, and lead new lives. Their common conversation and religious deeds must be holy. So far is the sacrifice of Christ our Passover for us, from rendering personal and public holiness unnecessary, that it furnishes powerful reasons and motives for it. Without holiness we can neither live by faith in him, nor join in his ordinances with comfort and profit.

Absent Acted Already Although Body Committed Deed Indeed Judged Judgment Part Passed Physically Present Pronounced Spirit Verily Wrought

Absent Acted Already Although Body Committed Deed Indeed Judged Judgment Part Passed Physically Present Pronounced Spirit Verily Wrought


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