READ: 1 Corinthians 5:5
REFLECT:
- This text presents the final act of discipline for an erring believer. Our focus is not on the discipline, but on the motivation. All discipline in Scripture is intentionally redemptive and that is summed up in the “saved” language. But the motive is seen in the “day of the Lord” reference.
- Belief in judgment changes everything. Because we believe there is a “day of the Lord” when Jesus returns and God calls all humanity to account for their lives, we are concerned about our behavior and that of fellow-believers. If there was no “tomorrow,” then what we did today would make little long-lasting difference.
- But there is a tomorrow. And in that tomorrow there is God. Everyone will see Him and give account of their lives to Him. Therefore, we must take today seriously. The “day of the Lord” becomes motivation to see this life as preparation for that day.
RESPOND:
- Reflect on a time when you were disciplined. Did it feel redemptive (was it for your good)? Or did it feel purely punitive? What’s the difference?
- If you were in front of God at this moment, would you be comfortable with what He would see?
- Ponder the activities and attitudes of the past couple of days. Would knowing that Jesus could come at any moment have changed anything about what you thought or did?
PRAY: Thank God for His mercy and grace. Pray that you live consistently before God so that you may have confidence in your relationship with Him. Pray that the “day of the Lord” might be a strong motivator for you (instead of a fear factor).
