I wrote you in my letter not to associate with immoral people; I did not at all mean with the immoral people of this world, or with the covetous and swindlers, or with idolaters, for then you would have to go out of the world.
But actually, I wrote to you not to associate with any so-called brother if he is an immoral person, or covetous, or an idolater, or a reviler, or a drunkard, or a swindler— not even to eat with such a one. For what have I to do with judging outsiders? Do you not judge those who are within the church? But those who are outside, God judges. 1 Corinthians 5:9-13
When it comes to who we hang out with, Christians are to have a double standard. Usually double standards are not good, but this one is! Paul says what Jesus said. If a person takes the name of Christ and is a “so-called” brother but is disobedient to the Word of God and his life is filled with immorality, don’t hang out with him. Don’t give him the benefit of fellowship while he purposely defames Jesus’ name. On the other hand, if an unbeliever is immoral, don’t be shocked and surprised. Jesus expressed this idea that we are a sanctifying influence in the world- in the world, but not of the world… is the idea in John 17.
Btw, did you know that 1 Corinthians is actually 2 Corinthians? That’s just an aside, but notice Paul says “I wrote you in my letter”. What letter? The missing one. Oh well, moving on, that’s a different discussion for another time.
Are my associations and friendships such that they please God? How can I be a sanctifying influence in the world today?
God, as this day begins… You are needed in so many ways. Please be very real and close to Galen, Glenn, and Grace in their loss and hurt. In the same way, assuage the fears Lisa must have about her mom. Help her mom recover from the heart attack. May we all find You to be the God of all comfort. Thank you for the people I know who are genuine followers of Christ and those still trying to find their way. Keep my heart tender and my mind alert to represent Jesus with wisdom from above. I pray Maureen and I can be a blessing and good example to Raz and Kat on their wedding day. Please give Patrick’s dad energy and health to travel today. Sorry to ramble on Lord.
