3.What had Paul done already, being present in Corinth in spirit? .

Back to Study the Book of First Corinthians

He had judged this man just as though Paul were present.

Paul’s indignation over this incest reveals clearly that current Christian theology is incorrect. If God sees us only in Christ, as is taught currently, there is no basic problem. If redemption is by belief alone, and behavior plays no critical role, then we have here an unfortunate situation but nothing serious.

However, it is not true that God sees us only in Christ. God accepts us in Christ with the provision that we abide in Christ and pursue the Divine program of sanctification. As long as we are abiding in Christ, we are without condemnation.

But the Christian who neglects prayer, Bible reading, assembling with the saints, who is spending his days in the lusts and things of this world, is notwithout condemnation. He is close to the Divine fire—fire that may result in his destruction.

The current concept that Divine love is unconditional is not scriptural. Unconditional love is a humanistic concept, not a scriptural concept. It proceeds ultimately from Satan, who is desirous of escaping the Lake of Fire.

But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned (Hebrews 6:8).

The ministers of our day who teach that salvation is by faith alone, and godly behavior is desirable but not critically important, are false prophets. They are heading toward the Divine fire and their disciples are following after them. The only reliable proof that a person is walking with God is a godly, pure life.