“It’s not a big deal.” I’m sure you have heard that statement before. Most of the time I probably use that phrase correctly, but sometimes I use it to downplay something that is a big deal. Such as being arrested in Mexico, my various illnesses growing up, and once in a while when I’ve made a mistake. Saying “It’s not a big deal,” might make me feel better in the moment. On the other side of the spectrum, sometimes it’s fun to revel in past life experiences or even brag about things that are good and the things that were bad. My guess is based on 1 Corinthians 5 both were happening in the church.
Nobody is perfect and sometimes our imperfections bring sin into the church. In Corinth the people were proud of either their sin or getting away with it, even boasting about it (v. 2; 6). Maybe they didn’t think it was a big deal because the world around them did the same kind of things. Maybe they thought it was okay to justify their sin. My guess, was they knew the sexual sin that was happening was a big deal and there was some pride in getting away with it. Of course, Paul had to encourage and correct. They needed to recognize the evilness that sin was brought into the community and make a hard change. They needed to mourn and grieve the fact that they let sin take root in the church. Paul was right in his instruction, this was a big deal and it needed to be treated like it was.
Sin is a problem but praise God for sending his Son so we can be forgiven, live, and be transformed from sin. Maybe you are stuck though. Maybe sin has its grips and you’ve been saying it’s not a big deal. It might be time to confess and mourn the sin that has been grabbing you (1 John 1:9). Maybe someone around you is boasting about their sin and you are unsure what to do. First, pray for wisdom, turn to God and let him help. Remember to speak the truth in love so we can all grow into maturity (Eph. 4:15). As always if we can help let us know, we are here with you!
Pastor Jeremy Johnson
Family Pastor