1 Corinthians 5:4
In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,
1 Corinthians 5:4
Paul instructs the gathered church to act “in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” with the apostle’s spirit and Christ’s power. This is a moment of collective action—church discipline—that is to be undertaken with authority rooted in Christ’s name and presence. The gathering of the church, the apostolic authorization, and the power of Jesus are the means by which corrective action is implemented for the sake of purity and restoration.
This verse anchors church discipline in the name and authority of Jesus. It’s a reminder that God’s authority, embodied in Christ, gives the church the right means to correct, restore, and protect the community. It also hints at the fusion of local church leadership and apostolic endorsement in governance, underscoring the seriousness and seriousness with which sin is addressed in the life of the church.
Practically, this means that church discipline should be a congregational, not private, affair when necessary, conducted with prayer, scriptural grounding, and a posture of restoration. It should be done gently and wisely, with care for the guilty and the victims alike, seeking repentance, reconciliation, and renewal in Christ.
Cross-References
- Matthew 18:15-17
- 2 Corinthians 2:6
- 1 Timothy 5:19-20
- Galatians 6:1