1 Corinthians 5:3-5

The command to practice discipline 1 Corinthians 5:3-5: Paul told the church that they should call a special meeting and deal with this matter. "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, In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, when ye are gathered together, and my spirit, with the power of our Lord Jesus Christ, To deliver such an one unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh, that the spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus." (1 Corinthians 5:3-5)

Observe these truths about what should take place: First, notice that God had given the local congregation authority to practice discipline. It was to be done "In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." They had the authority of Christ Himself to withdraw from this offending brother.

Second, the offending brother was to be delivered unto Satan for the destruction of the flesh. This had happened to Ananias and Sapphira. They died in Jerusalem for the sin of lying to God. (Acts 5:1-42) At best "The sinful man was delivered to Satan, to suffer physical affliction, to bring him to repentance and turn out for the good of his soul."