“Purge out therefore the old leaven, that ye may be a new lump, as ye are unleavened. For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us:”– 1 Corinthians 5:7 (KJV)
“Get rid of the old yeast by removing this wicked person from among you. Then you will be like a fresh batch of dough made without yeast, which is what you really are. Christ, our Passover lamb, has been sacrificed for us.”– 1 Corinthians 5:7 (NLT)
“So clean out the old yeast. Have a new batch made without yeast, as you really are. Christ, our Passover, has been sacrificed for us.”– 1 Corinthians 5:7 (MSG)
What Does 1 Corinthians 5:7 Mean?
The verse 1 Corinthians 5:7 comes from a letter that Paul wrote to the church in Corinth. Here, Paul uses the metaphor of yeast and bread to explain a significant truth about our lives as believers in Christ. Yeast is known for causing dough to rise, and it can represent both sin and the influence of sin. When Paul speaks of getting rid of the “old leaven,” he refers to the need for purification in our lives, urging the Corinthian church to remove sinful behaviors that can spread and affect the entire community. He emphasizes that, as believers, we have been made new through Jesus’ sacrifice, and as a result, we should live in a manner that reflects our new identity.
So, when we talk about being a “new lump” and being “unleavened,” it signifies a fresh start, a new beginning that comes through Christ. This phrase brings to mind the idea of living authentically as we embrace the transformation that Jesus brings into our lives. In essence, Paul is urging us to let go of anything that is contrary to our identity in Christ. We are reformed and renewed through Him, and that renewal comes with a responsibility to reflect His love and holiness in the way we live our lives.
1 Corinthians 5:7 Explanation and Commentary
Continuing in the commentary on this verse, we recognize that Paul is addressing issues of immorality and divisions within the church. Corinth was notorious for its moral issues and challenges, and Paul sought to guide them back to a path aligned with the teachings of Jesus. When Paul instructs them to “purge out the old leaven,” he is directing them to act decisively against sin. This isn’t merely about individual choices but rather the collective moral responsibility of the church. Paul understood that allowing sinful influences to linger could jeopardize the integrity and witness of the entire community.
Paul’s reference to Christ as the Passover lamb underscores the foundation of our faith. The Passover points back to the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt, where the blood of a lamb marked their doorposts for protection. In the same way, Jesus, our ultimate Passover lamb, has sacrificed Himself for our spiritual deliverance from sin. His death on the cross signifies liberation from bondage to sin, and through Him, we can celebrate true freedom.
As we reflect on this verse, it becomes clear that our actions matter. Our choices can be likened to yeast—small yet impactful. One wrong choice can lead to a chain reaction, affecting our entire spiritual community. Thus, Paul’s admonition is an urgent call for self-examination. Are we nurturing old patterns of sin, or are we embracing the life that Christ died to give us? We must ask ourselves if we are living as “unleavened” people, free from the threat of sin’s influence in our lives.
This call to action remains relevant for us today. It’s a reminder that, through Christ, we have the power to change, to throw off the shackles of sin, and to live in a way that is pleasing to God. This transformation might require tough choices and honest conversations within our communities, but it leads us closer to the heart of worshiping and serving our God in spirit and truth.
Context of 1 Corinthians 5:7
To fully grasp the meaning of 1 Corinthians 5:7, we need to understand the surrounding context of the letter Paul wrote to the Corinthians. The Corinthian church was grappling with various challenges, including divisions, idolatry, and sexual immorality. Paul opens Chapter 5 addressing a shocking case of immorality where a man was involved in a relationship with his father’s wife, which was socially and morally unacceptable in that culture.
Paul’s response to this situation speaks to the importance of accountability within the church. He expresses sorrow and astonishment over how the church had become complacent, tolerating sin rather than addressing it. He underscores that to maintain the purity of their community, action must be taken, and his instructions about removing the old leaven serve as a metaphor for cleansing the church of influences that were detrimental to their faith.
By referencing the Passover, Paul also connects their current situation to their Jewish heritage, reminding them that just as Israel was called to be distinct from other nations, so too the church is called to reflect a life that embodies the values of the kingdom of God. The call is both an invitation to live differently and a warning about the dangers of complacency regarding sin.
This context gives us invaluable insight into our role as Christians today. Many of us live in environments that may challenge our faith or threaten our values. Paul’s admonition shines a light on how we can gently guide one another toward righteousness while upholding truth and love. We are collectively responsible for encouraging each other to be more like Christ in our actions and decisions.
Breaking Down the Key Parts of 1 Corinthians 5:7
The phrase “purge out therefore the old leaven” challenges us to confront things in our lives we may deem insignificant but which could lead to destructive consequences. The importance of this statement cannot be underestimated. It speaks directly to our need for spiritual vigilance and integrity. Each of us must take inventory of our lives and ask ourselves if there are habits, relationships, or mindsets that need to be addressed.
When we consider the imagery of yeast, we recognize how even a small amount can have a significant effect. This is a truth we must hold close as we ponder our influence on others. Just as yeast spreads through dough, our words and actions can spread among those around us, whether for good or ill.
The term “new lump” also emphasizes the transformative work God does in us. As believers, we are not meant to remain as we were. Instead, we are called to embrace our new identity in Christ. The process of sanctification—the act of becoming more like Christ—is ongoing. It requires intention, community support, and reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Finally, the phrase “For even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us” speaks to the core of the Gospel. Our entire hope hinges on the reality of Christ’s sacrifice. It was His shed blood that provides us freedom from sin, offering us a pathway to reconcile with God. This act of love exemplifies not only God’s nature but also the abundant grace available to us. In response, we are called to honor that sacrifice with lives aligned to His teachings.
Lessons to Learn From 1 Corinthians 5:7
This passage offers multiple lessons we can draw from its rich message. Firstly, we are reminded of our identity in Christ. We carry His name and must act in ways representative of Him. It is not about perfection but sincerity. Recognizing that we are constantly in need of His grace can help us foster humility within our hearts. Embracing the transformation He offers allows us to live freely and joyfully.
Secondly, we learn about community accountability. No one exists in isolation. Each person’s choices can affect the larger body of believers. This paints a picture of interdependence, encouraging us to check in with one another lovingly and honestly. It’s a gentle reminder that we should challenge one another to grow spiritually and to seek the good of others.
We can also appreciate the powerful message of grace throughout this passage. Christ’s sacrifice obliterates the divides sin creates. It affirms that regardless of our past, there is a fresh start available for us. Even in the face of struggle, we can find hope and strength in knowing we are loved and redeemed.
Lastly, we are called to recognize the reality of sin. Paul does not shy away from calling out sin for what it is. This challenges us to approach both our own lives and the lives of those within our communities with discernment. Sometimes that may involve uncomfortable conversations, but when done in love, those conversations can lead to restoration.
Final Thoughts
1 Corinthians 5:7 invites us to a deeper understanding of what it means to live as followers of Christ. It confronts us with the call to purity and reminds us of the cost of our salvation through Jesus. As we reflect on this verse, may we find ourselves inspired to examine our hearts and lives closely, casting aside anything that holds us back from fully embracing the new life He offers.
Let us continue to grow together, learning from one another as we pursue holiness. This journey isn’t one we take alone; we have each other and the grace of God guiding us through it all. For those looking to explore more biblical teachings, we encourage you to check out various topics available for your growth in faith. Take time to reflect on passages like Acts 14:24 or Acts 14:23 to deepen your understanding of God’s Word.