1 Corinthians 5:4

KJV

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,

KJV (with Strong's)

In {G1722} the name {G3686} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547}, when ye {G5216} are gathered together {G4863}, and {G2532} my {G1699} spirit {G4151}, with {G4862} the power {G1411} of our {G2257} Lord {G2962} Jesus {G2424} Christ {G5547},

Complete Jewish Bible

In the name of the Lord Yeshua, when you are assembled, with me present spiritually and the power of our Lord Yeshua among us,

Berean Standard Bible

When you are assembled in the name of our Lord Jesus and I am with you in spirit, along with the power of the Lord Jesus,

American Standard Version

in the name of our Lord Jesus, ye being gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus,

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 5:4 is a foundational verse that articulates the spiritual authority and procedural framework for church discipline, specifically in the context of addressing severe unrepentant sin within the Corinthian community. Paul, though physically absent, asserts his apostolic presence and the divine power of Christ as the true basis for the church's corporate action, ensuring that their judgment is not merely human but divinely sanctioned and effective for the purification of the church and the potential restoration of the offender.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is deeply embedded within Paul's urgent and stern instructions regarding a scandalous case of sexual immorality within the Corinthian church. In [1 Corinthians 5:1-2](/1_corinthians/5-1-2 "1 Corinthians 5:1-2 - Immorality and Arrogance in Corinth"), Paul expresses his shock and dismay that the church, far from mourning, was instead arrogant and had not removed the offender. He then, in [1 Corinthians 5:3](/1_corinthians/5-3 "1 Corinthians 5:3 - Paul's Judgment from Afar"), declares his own judgment, even though physically distant, setting the stage for the corporate action described in verse 4. The subsequent verse, [1 Corinthians 5:5](/1_corinthians/5-5 "1 Corinthians 5:5 - Delivering to Satan"), details the severe consequence of this disciplinary action, which is intended for the destruction of the flesh so that the spirit may be saved. The broader context of [1 Corinthians 5](/1_corinthians/5 "1 Corinthians 5 - Dealing with Immorality") emphasizes the imperative for the church to maintain purity and holiness, likening sin to "leaven" that can corrupt the whole lump, as seen in [1 Corinthians 5:6-8](/1_corinthians/5-6-8 "1 Corinthians 5:6-8 - Purging the Old Leaven").
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Corinth was a major Roman port city, notorious for its wealth, diverse population, and prevalent immorality, including various forms of sexual license and pagan temple prostitution. This cultural backdrop made the church's tolerance of incest particularly egregious, as such a relationship was condemned even by Roman law, as implied by Paul's statement in [1 Corinthians 5:1](/1_corinthians/5-1 "1 Corinthians 5:1 - Immorality Among You"). The early Christian church, though living within this pagan environment, was called to be distinct and holy, reflecting God's character. Church discipline, therefore, was not merely a moral policing act but a vital practice for maintaining the integrity of the Christian witness in a corrupt world and for preserving the spiritual health of the community. The concept of "gathering together" (ἐν τῷ συναχθῆναι ὑμᾶς) reflects the customary practice of the early church assembling for worship, teaching, and communal decisions, often in house churches, where such solemn acts of discipline would take place.
* **Key Themes:** [1 Corinthians 5:4](/1_corinthians/5-4 "1 Corinthians 5:4 - Authority for Discipline") contributes significantly to several key themes within the letter. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Apostolic Authority and Spiritual Presence**. Paul, despite his physical absence, asserts his spiritual presence and authority in guiding the church's actions, demonstrating that his directives are not mere suggestions but authoritative commands from a divinely appointed apostle. Secondly, the verse highlights **Corporate Responsibility and Unity in Action**. The phrase "when ye are gathered together" emphasizes that church discipline is a corporate act, requiring the unified participation of the entire assembly, not just a few leaders. This reflects the New Testament understanding of the church as a unified body of Christ, where the purity of one member affects the whole, a concept further developed in [1 Corinthians 12](/1_corinthians/12 "1 Corinthians 12 - Spiritual Gifts and Body Unity"). Lastly, and most crucially, the verse powerfully conveys the theme of **Divine Authority and Power in Church Action**. The repeated invocation of "the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" and "with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ" establishes that the church's disciplinary actions derive their legitimacy and efficacy not from human wisdom or power, but directly from the ultimate authority and empowering presence of Christ himself. This divine backing ensures that the severe measures taken, as described in [1 Corinthians 5:5](/1_corinthians/5-5 "1 Corinthians 5:5 - Delivering to Satan"), are spiritually valid and aimed at God's purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **ónoma (Greek, _ónoma'_):** From G3686, meaning a "name" (literally or figuratively) encompassing authority and character. In this context, "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" signifies acting by His authority, representing His character, and embodying His power. It is not merely a verbal invocation but an assertion that the action is sanctioned and empowered by Christ Himself, making it legitimate and effective in the spiritual realm.
* **pneûma (Greek, _pneûma'_):** From G4151, meaning a current of air, breath, or figuratively, a spirit, including the human rational soul or a divine spirit. Here, "my spirit" refers to Paul's spiritual presence and authority, indicating that even though he is physically absent, his apostolic spiritual authority is fully engaged and present with the Corinthian assembly as they undertake this solemn act of discipline. It denotes his full endorsement and participation in spirit.
* **dýnamis (Greek, _dýnamis'_):** From G1411, meaning force (literally or figuratively), specially miraculous power, or a miracle itself. "With the power of our Lord Jesus Christ" emphasizes that the church's action is not based on human strength or judgment, but is imbued with divine energy and capability. This power ensures that the disciplinary measure is spiritually weighty and effective, capable of achieving its intended spiritual outcome.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,"**: This opening phrase establishes the ultimate source of authority for the church's actions. It signifies that the assembly is not acting on its own human judgment or power, but as representatives of Christ, under His direct command and by His inherent authority. This invocation legitimizes the severe disciplinary measure that is about to be taken.
* **"when ye are gathered together,"**: This clause emphasizes the corporate nature of the action. The discipline is not to be carried out by an individual or a small committee, but by the entire congregation assembled as the body of Christ. This highlights the collective responsibility of the church in upholding its purity and the solemnity of the occasion.
* **"and my spirit,"**: This phrase indicates Paul's spiritual presence and participation in the assembly's decision. Though physically absent, his apostolic authority and spiritual discernment are united with the Corinthian believers. It underscores that this directive is not merely a suggestion but a command from an apostle divinely appointed by Christ.
* **"with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ,"**: This concluding phrase reiterates and reinforces the divine backing for the church's action. It means that the disciplinary measure is not only carried out "in the name" (by the authority) of Christ but also "with the power" (by the enabling might) of Christ. This divine power ensures the spiritual efficacy of the discipline, making it truly impactful in the spiritual realm for the purification of the church and the potential repentance of the individual.

#### Literary Devices
The verse employs several significant literary devices. **Repetition** is prominent with the phrase "our Lord Jesus Christ" appearing twice, serving to underscore the absolute centrality and ultimate authority of Christ in all matters of church life and discipline. This repetition acts as a powerful theological anchor. There is also a strong sense of **Apostolic Presence**, where Paul, despite his physical absence, asserts his spiritual presence ("my spirit") as being united with the Corinthian assembly. This is a form of **metonymy**, where "spirit" represents Paul's full apostolic authority and spiritual discernment. The phrase "in the name of" functions as a **metonymy** for the authority, character, and very essence of Christ, implying that the action is fully endorsed and empowered by Him. The structure of the verse also demonstrates a form of **parallelism**, linking the church's gathering and Paul's spirit with the dual aspects of Christ's authority ("in the name") and His enabling power ("with the power"), creating a comprehensive framework for legitimate spiritual action.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
[1 Corinthians 5:4](/1_corinthians/5-4 "1 Corinthians 5:4 - Authority for Discipline") is a cornerstone for understanding the nature of church authority and discipline. It establishes that the church's power is not inherent in its members or leaders, but is derived directly from Christ, its Head. This divine authorization means that when the church acts in accordance with Christ's will, particularly in matters of purity and discipline, its actions carry spiritual weight and are recognized in the heavenly courts. The verse underscores the solemnity and spiritual gravity of church discipline, positioning it not as a punitive measure driven by human anger or judgment, but as a redemptive act empowered by Christ for the health of the body and the soul of the individual. It highlights the corporate responsibility of the entire assembly in upholding the holiness of God's people.

* [Matthew 18:18-20](/matthew/18-18-20 "Matthew 18:18-20 - Binding and Loosing Authority")
* [2 Corinthians 10:8](/2_corinthians/10-8 "2 Corinthians 10:8 - Paul's Authority for Edification")
* [Acts 3:6](/acts/3-6 "Acts 3:6 - Healing in Jesus' Name")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
[1 Corinthians 5:4](/1_corinthians/5-4 "1 Corinthians 5:4 - Authority for Discipline") profoundly challenges contemporary churches to consider the source and nature of their authority. In an age where church discipline is often neglected or misunderstood, this verse reminds us that true spiritual authority in the church flows directly from Jesus Christ. It calls believers to recognize that when the church gathers and acts in unity, guided by the Holy Spirit and in accordance with biblical principles, its decisions are not merely human pronouncements but carry divine weight. This should instill both a sense of awe and responsibility. It means that addressing serious sin within the community is not about condemnation, but about maintaining the purity of Christ's body and seeking the ultimate restoration of the individual, all under the empowering presence of the Lord. It compels us to pray for wisdom and humility in exercising such weighty responsibilities, ensuring that all actions are motivated by love and a desire for God's glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding that church authority comes from Christ, not from human leaders, change your perspective on church discipline?**
* **In what ways can a local church ensure that its actions are truly "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" and "with His power"?**
* **What is the role of the entire congregation in upholding the purity and holiness of the church, as implied by "when ye are gathered together"?**
* **How can individual believers contribute to a church culture where serious sin is addressed biblically, rather than ignored or tolerated?**

### FAQ

**What does "in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ" truly signify in this verse?**

Answer: This phrase signifies far more than a mere verbal invocation. It means acting by the full authority, character, and power of Jesus Christ. When the Corinthian church was to gather and take disciplinary action, they were to do so as Christ's representatives, with His full endorsement and backing. It implies that the action taken is not a human judgment but a divine one, sanctioned and empowered by the Lord himself. This concept is similar to how the apostles performed miracles [in Jesus' name](/acts/3-6 "Acts 3:6 - Healing in Jesus' Name"), indicating His active power.

**Why does Paul mention "my spirit" alongside the gathering of the church?**

Answer: Paul, though physically absent from Corinth, asserts his spiritual presence and apostolic authority. This indicates that his judgment and directive for church discipline are not just distant advice but are fully present and united with the Corinthian assembly. It underscores that this is a command from a divinely appointed apostle, ensuring that the church's action has apostolic backing and is in alignment with God's will. It shows Paul's deep pastoral concern and his active participation in the spiritual well-being of the church, even from afar, as he also mentions in [Colossians 2:5](/colossians/2-5 "Colossians 2:5 - Paul's Joy in Their Order").

**What is the significance of the church being "gathered together" for this action?**

Answer: The phrase "when ye are gathered together" emphasizes that church discipline, especially for serious offenses, is a corporate responsibility and a communal act. It is not to be carried out by a single individual or a small group of leaders in isolation, but by the entire assembly. This highlights the unity of the body of Christ and the collective responsibility of all members to uphold the purity and holiness of the church. It also adds solemnity and weight to the decision, as it reflects the consensus and commitment of the whole community, as also seen in the broader principles of church life in [1 Corinthians 14](/1_corinthians/14 "1 Corinthians 14 - Order in Worship").

**How does "with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ" relate to church discipline?**

Answer: This phrase highlights that the disciplinary action is not merely a human process but is imbued with divine efficacy. The "power" (Greek: _dýnamis_) refers to God's miraculous, enabling strength. When the church acts in Christ's name and with His power, the discipline is spiritually potent and effective, capable of achieving its intended spiritual outcomes—namely, the purification of the church and the potential repentance and restoration of the offender. This divine power is what makes the severe action described in [1 Corinthians 5:5](/1_corinthians/5-5 "1 Corinthians 5:5 - Delivering to Satan") spiritually meaningful and not just a social ostracism.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
[1 Corinthians 5:4](/1_corinthians/5-4 "1 Corinthians 5:4 - Authority for Discipline") finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The entire framework of church discipline, as outlined here, is predicated on Christ's supreme authority as the Head of the Church, a truth powerfully articulated in [Ephesians 1:22-23](/ephesians/1-22-23 "Ephesians 1:22-23 - Christ as Head of the Church"). It is because Christ has "all authority in heaven and on earth" ([Matthew 28:18](/matthew/28-18 "Matthew 28:18 - All Authority Given to Jesus")) that He can delegate such weighty spiritual power to His body, the church. The mention of "my spirit" alongside the "power of our Lord Jesus Christ" points to the reality of Christ's continued presence and active work through His Holy Spirit, who indwells believers and empowers the church to carry out His will ([John 14:16-17](/john/14-16-17 "John 14:16-17 - The Indwelling Spirit")). Ultimately, the purpose of such discipline, as seen in the broader context of [1 Corinthians 5](/1_corinthians/5 "1 Corinthians 5 - Dealing with Immorality"), is to preserve the holiness of Christ's bride, the church, and to bring about repentance, reflecting Christ's own desire for His people to be pure and blameless before Him ([Ephesians 5:25-27](/ephesians/5-25-27 "Ephesians 5:25-27 - Christ Loves the Church")). Thus, this verse is not merely about rules for a local assembly, but about the ongoing reign of Christ through His Spirit in His church, actively working to sanctify His people and prepare them for His glorious return.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

John 20:23

Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; [and] whose soever [sins] ye retain, they are retained.

2 Corinthians 13:3

Since ye seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, which to you-ward is not weak, but is mighty in you.

2 Thessalonians 3:6

¶ Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.

Colossians 3:17

And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Matthew 16:19

And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.

Matthew 18:16

But if he will not hear [thee, then] take with thee one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established.

Matthew 18:18

Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.