Scripture

When I forgive whatever needs to be forgiven, I do so with Christ’s authority for your benefit, so that Satan will not outsmart us. We are familiar with his evil schemes.

Observation

Paul decided not to visit the Corinthians because he did not want to cause them more grief.

Instead, he wrote them a letter (which we no longer have). He wants to bring joy to them when he does get to Corinth. The letter was written in great anguish and with tears. He wanted them to know how much love he had for them.

There was a man in the church who caused them great trouble. The majority of the church opposed him. Paul tells them that it is now time to forgive him and show him love. Paul says that when they forgive him, he will too.

Satan can use this situation for evil if they are not careful. This brother may become discouraged and give Satan a victory.

Application

There is a place for discipline in the church, but we do need to be careful. In this case, Paul is discussing a brother who had been disruptive and had been rebuked. Paul urges them to forgive him and bring him back into fellowship.

Our culture tells us that individual freedom is the highest virtue. But for the church, we must be submitted to one another and to the Lord. That is the very opposite of what the world tells us.

When we have a church member who sins publicly or otherwise crosses the boundaries of proper behaviour in the church, we must confront that and say that it is wrong. We may even need to suspend them from some activities in the fellowship for a time.

But love and grace must be at the forefront. When a brother repents, we forgive, just as Christ forgives us when we repent.

There is a fine line between too much and two little discipline. Discipline can become controlling. Satan is always looking for opportunities to exploit gaps in the armour of the church. So we must always be led by the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Lord please help me to be subject to your ways at all times. Let my words and my actions glorify you, my Lord and Redeemer. Amen.