1 Corinthians 5:12
For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?
Original Language Analysis
τί
what
G5101
τί
what
Strong's:
G5101
Word #:
1 of 12
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
2 of 12
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
καί
them also
G2532
καί
them also
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
4 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
5 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἔξω
that are without
G1854
ἔξω
that are without
Strong's:
G1854
Word #:
6 of 12
out(-side) (of doors), literally or figuratively
τοὺς
G3588
τοὺς
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
9 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Mark 4:11And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables:1 Timothy 3:7Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.Luke 12:14And he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider over you?
Historical Context
Paul's distinction between insiders and outsiders reflects Jewish practice—synagogues exercised discipline over members but didn't judge Gentiles. Early Christians faced tension: how to maintain distinct moral standards while living in pagan cities. Paul's answer: hold believers accountable to gospel ethics; extend grace and gospel witness to unbelievers without expecting them to live as Christians before conversion.
Questions for Reflection
- Do you spend more energy condemning the world's sin or addressing sin within the church?
- How can you maintain high standards for Christians without self-righteousness toward non-Christians?
- What does it mean to judge those 'within' the church—how is this done lovingly and biblically?
Analysis & Commentary
For what have I to do to judge them also that are without?—the rhetorical question expects a negative answer: "Nothing!" Krinō (κρίνω, "judge") here means rendering moral verdicts and exercising discipline. Them that are without (τοὺς ἔξω) refers to those outside the church, unbelievers. Paul isn't called to police the morality of pagan Corinth—that's God's prerogative. The church's jurisdiction is internal, not external. Do not ye judge them that are within?—another rhetorical question expecting "Yes!"
Esō (ἔσω, "within") are church members who have covenanted together under Christ's lordship and submitted to mutual accountability. The church is responsible to exercise discernment and discipline within its own ranks. This principle protects against two errors:
The church's witness is maintained by internal holiness, not external coercion. We evangelize the world with grace while maintaining accountability within the covenant community.