When the case is thus stated, it is easy to understand why the apostle required all the disciples to “put away” from among themselves “that wicked person.”  Had they continued to cherish the spirit which they had recently displayed, they might either have encouraged the fornicator to refuse submission to the sentence, or they might have rendered it comparatively powerless.  He therefore reminds them that they too should seek to promote the purity of ecclesiastical fellowship; and that they were bound to cooperate in carrying out a righteous discipline.  They were to cease to recognize this fallen disciple as a servant of Christ; they were to withdraw themselves from his society; they were to decline to meet him on the same terms, as heretofore, in social intercourse; and they were not even to eat in his company.  Thus would the reputation of the Church be vindicated; for in this way it would be immediately known to all who were without that he was no longer considered a member of the brotherhood.

The Corinthians were awakened to a sense of duty by this apostolic letter, and acted up to its instructions.  The result was most satisfactory.  When the offender, saw that he was cut off from the Church, and that its members avoided his society, he was completely humbled.  The sentence of the apostle, or the eldership, if opposed or neglected by the people, might have produced little impression; but “the punishment which was inflicted of many”—­the immediate and entire abandonment of all connexion with him by the disciples at Corinth—­overwhelmed him with shame and terror.  He felt as a man smitten by the judgment of God; he renounced his sin; and he exhibited the most unequivocal tokens of genuine contrition.  In due time he was restored to Church fellowship; and the apostle then exhorted his brethren to readmit him to intercourse, and to treat him with kindness and confidence.  “Ye ought,” says he, “rather to forgive him and comfort him, lest perhaps such an one should be swallowed up with overmuch sorrow.  Wherefore I beseech you that ye would confirm your love toward him.” [227:1]

This case of the Corinthian fornicator has been recorded for the admonition and guidance of believers in all generations.  It teaches that every member of a Christian Church is bound to use his best endeavours to promote a pure communion; and that he is not guiltless if, prompted by mistaken charity or considerations of selfishness, he is not prepared to co-operate in the exclusion of false brethren.  Many an immoral minister has maintained his position, and has thus continued to bring discredit on the gospel, simply because those who had witnessed his misconduct were induced to suppress their testimony; and many a church court has been prevented from enforcing discipline by the clamours or intimidation of an ignorant and excited congregation.  The command—­“Put away from among yourselves that wicked person,” is addressed to the people, as well as to the ministry;