1 Corinthians 5:9

“9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators.”

Certainly! Here is a Bible study on 1 Corinthians 5:9, using the King James Version (KJV) translation:

1. Read the Passage:

“9 I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators.” (1 Corinthians 5:9, KJV)

Context:

The Apostle Paul wrote this letter to the Corinthian church to address various issues and correct their conduct. In this particular chapter, Paul is addressing a specific case of sexual immorality within the church. He exhorts the believers to deal with the situation in a decisive manner.

Understanding the Verse:

In verse 9, Paul refers to a previous letter he had written to the Corinthians. This indicates that there was a previous correspondence between Paul and the church. Unfortunately, this earlier letter is not included in the biblical canon, so we do not have its exact contents. However, it is clear from this verse that Paul had instructed the Corinthians not to associate with fornicators.

Key Themes:

• a. Separation from Sinful Behavior:Paul’s instruction to avoid associating with fornicators emphasizes the importance of separating oneself from immoral behaviour. As followers of Christ, believers are called to live holy lives, which includes abstaining from sexual immorality.
• b. Church Discipline:This verse highlights the need for church discipline when addressing unrepentant sin within the body of believers. The Corinthian church had failed to address the issue adequately, and Paul later goes on to instruct them on how to handle the situation.

Application:

• a. Living a Holy Life:This verse reminds us of the need to live according to God’s standards and avoid sinful behaviours. It challenges us to examine our own lives and make any necessary changes to align ourselves with God’s Word.
• b. Church Accountability:We are part of a larger body of believers, and it is essential to hold each other accountable for our actions. This verse encourages us to confront and address sin within the church context, following biblical principles of discipline and restoration.

Related Scriptures:

• a. 1 Corinthians 5:11 (KJV):“But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat.” This verse expands on the instruction given in verse 9, highlighting specific behaviours that should lead to separation within the church.
• b. 2 Corinthians 6:14 (KJV):“Be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship hath righteousness with unrighteousness? and what communion hath light with darkness?” This verse emphasizes the importance of believers being discerning in their relationships and associations, not being unequally yoked with those who do not share their faith.