1 Corinthians 5:3

For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, [concerning] him that hath so done this deed,

For {G1063} I {G1473} verily {G3303}, as {G5613} absent {G548} in body {G4983}, but {G1161} present {G3918} in spirit {G4151}, have judged {G2919} already {G2235}, as {G5613} though I were present {G3918}, concerning him that hath {G2716} so {G3779} done {G2716} this deed {G5124},

For I myself, even though I am absent physically, am with you spiritually; and I have already judged the man who has done this as if I were present.

Although I am absent from you in body, I am present with you in spirit, and I have already pronounced judgment on the one who did this, just as if I were present.

For I verily, being absent in body but present in spirit, have already as though I were present judged him that hath so wrought this thing,

Commentary

1 Corinthians 5:3 finds the Apostle Paul asserting his spiritual authority and decisive judgment over a grave moral issue within the Corinthian church. Though physically absent, Paul declares his spiritual presence and his completed judgment concerning the man involved in the scandalous incestuous relationship mentioned in 1 Corinthians 5:1.

Context

This verse is part of Paulโ€™s strong rebuke to the Corinthian believers. In the preceding verses, Paul expresses his astonishment and dismay that they tolerated a man living with his father's wife, a sin so egregious it was unheard of even among pagans. Furthermore, he condemns their pride and lack of sorrow over the situation. Paul's judgment in verse 3 sets the stage for his instructions on church discipline in the verses that follow, highlighting the urgency and necessity of dealing with unrepentant sin to maintain the purity and witness of the Christian community.

Key Themes

  • Apostolic Authority: Paul demonstrates his spiritual authority over the churches he founded, even from a distance. His "presence in spirit" signifies a deep spiritual connection and discernment, enabling him to make a firm judgment as if he were physically there. This is a powerful assertion of his God-given leadership, similar to his spiritual watchfulness over the Colossians in Colossians 2:5.
  • Church Discipline: The verse initiates Paul's instructions for the church to take action against persistent, unrepentant sin. His judgment is not merely a personal opinion but a divine directive for the congregation to implement, emphasizing the church's responsibility to uphold holiness and address moral failures.
  • Spiritual Discernment: Paul's claim to be "present in spirit" implies more than just empathy; it suggests a spiritual perception of the situation and a clear understanding of God's will regarding it. This spiritual insight allows him to judge "as though I were present."

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "have judged already" translates the Greek word kekrika (ฮบฮตฮบฯฮนฮบฮฑ), which is in the perfect tense. This grammatical form indicates a completed action with ongoing results. Paul's judgment is not tentative or still in process; it is a settled, definitive decision that stands and requires immediate action from the Corinthian church. This strong declaration underscores the gravity of the situation and the imperative nature of his command.

Related Scriptures

Paul's assertion of authority and the need for church discipline resonate with other passages:

Practical Application

This verse reminds believers and church leaders of the serious responsibility to address unrepentant sin within the Christian community. It highlights that true spiritual leadership involves not only teaching but also making difficult judgments when necessary for the health and integrity of the body of Christ. While physical presence is important, spiritual unity and discernment can transcend distance, enabling leaders to act decisively on behalf of biblical truth and holiness. It calls the church to maintain a high standard of conduct, reflecting God's character to the world.

Note: If the commentary doesnโ€™t appear instantly, please allow 2โ€“5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated โ€” the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Colossians 2:5

    For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.

  • 1 Thessalonians 2:17

    ยถ But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.

  • 2 Corinthians 13:2

    I told you before, and foretell you, as if I were present, the second time; and being absent now I write to them which heretofore have sinned, and to all other, that, if I come again, I will not spare:

  • 2 Corinthians 10:11

    Let such an one think this, that, such as we are in word by letters when we are absent, such [will we be] also in deed when we are present.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:1

    ยถ Now I Paul myself beseech you by the meekness and gentleness of Christ, who in presence [am] base among you, but being absent am bold toward you:
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