1 Corinthians 5 - Cruciform Sexuality
Even though the ‘sexual revolution’ began in the middle of the last century, most people still prefer to keep any discussion about sexuality at arm’s length. Why do you think we find it difficult to have frank, honest discussion about our own sexual experiences and brokenness?
In the sermon today, Robb spoke about the two pitfalls of Affirmation (1 Corinthians 5:1-5) and Condemnation (1 Corinthians 5:9-13). Can you think of concrete examples of the people erring in each of these ways in the name of Christ? Why are these pitfalls so dangerous?
Read 1 Cor 5:6-8. Instead of affirmation and condemnation, Paul leads the church through Gospel Proclamation. Here Paul uses the imagery of the Passover to remind the church of the Gospel. Take a moment to review these gospel truths out loud. What does the festival of Passover commemorate? What is the significance of the leaven, the bread, and the sacrificial lamb?
Why is the Gospel a better way to deal with our shame and guilt than Affirmation & Condemnation? What does the Gospel require of us?
Read 1 Cor 5:2-5. Most scholars understand the language of vv3-4 as an invocation of Paul’s apostolic authority, and v5 as an idiomatic way to describe excommunication. If it is true that ‘deliver this man to Satan’ means ‘put him out of fellowship’, what does it tell us about the importance of regular fellowship for our spiritual vitality?
In his sermon, Robb quoted an Andrew Peterson song called I’ve Got News. You can listen to the song here. Take time together to worship Christ for the good news of the Gospel and its transforming power in our lives.