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Verse Takeaways
1
The Church's Limited Jurisdiction
Commentators unanimously explain that Paul is drawing a clear boundary for the church's authority. The power to formally judge and discipline applies only to its own members ('them that are within'). The church has no such jurisdiction over non-believers ('them that are without'), who are left to God's judgment.
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Book Overview
1 Corinthians
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Commentaries
7
Albert Barnes
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
18th Century
Theologian
For what have I to do, etc. I have no authority over them; and can exercise no jurisdiction over them. All my rules, therefore, must have …
AT Robertson
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
For what have I to do? (τ γαρ μοι; ). "For what is it to me (dative) to judge those without (τους εξο)?" They are outside the chur…
Charles Ellicott
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
19th Century
Bishop
For what have I to do . . .?—In this verse, the Apostle at once explains the reasons for limiting his remarks to Christians. He also…
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Expositor's Bible Commentary
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
Though it is logical and necessary for the church to exercise spiritual discipline over members within its fellowship (the question asked in v.12 i…
John Calvin
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
16th Century
Theologian
For what have I to do to judge them that are without? There is nothing to prevent us from judging these also—indeed, even devils themselve…
John Gill
On 1 Corinthians 5:12
17th Century
Pastor
For what have I to do to judge
To admonish, reprove, censure, and condemn:
them also that are wit…
Matthew Henry
On 1 Corinthians 5:9–13
17th Century
Minister
Christians are to avoid close association with all who disgrace the Christian name. Such are only fit companions for their fellows in sin, and to s…