1 Corinthians 5:3
For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit, have judged already, as though I were present, concerning him that hath so done this deed,
Original Language Analysis
μὲν
verily
G3303
μὲν
verily
Strong's:
G3303
Word #:
2 of 19
properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)
γάρ
For
G1063
γάρ
For
Strong's:
G1063
Word #:
3 of 19
properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
4 of 19
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
σώματι
in body
G4983
σώματι
in body
Strong's:
G4983
Word #:
7 of 19
the body (as a sound whole), used in a very wide application, literally or figuratively
παρὼν
present
G3918
παρὼν
present
Strong's:
G3918
Word #:
8 of 19
to be near, i.e., at hand; neuter present participle (singular) time being, or (plural) property
τῷ
G3588
τῷ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πνεύματι
in spirit
G4151
πνεύματι
in spirit
Strong's:
G4151
Word #:
11 of 19
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
ὡς
as
G5613
ὡς
as
Strong's:
G5613
Word #:
14 of 19
which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)
παρὼν
present
G3918
παρὼν
present
Strong's:
G3918
Word #:
15 of 19
to be near, i.e., at hand; neuter present participle (singular) time being, or (plural) property
τὸν
G3588
τὸν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
16 of 19
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
Colossians 2:5For though I be absent in the flesh, yet am I with you in the spirit, joying and beholding your order, and the stedfastness of your faith in Christ.1 Thessalonians 2:17But we, brethren, being taken from you for a short time in presence, not in heart, endeavoured the more abundantly to see your face with great desire.
Historical Context
Paul wrote from Ephesus during his three-year ministry there (Acts 19-20), maintaining pastoral oversight of churches he founded. Ancient letters often substituted for personal presence, with apostolic letters carrying full authority. The Corinthians had sent him questions (7:1) and received reports from Chloe's household (1:11).
Questions for Reflection
- Do you have the courage to make clear judgments about sin, or do you delay hoping problems resolve themselves?
- How do you exercise discernment without becoming judgmental—judging actions while extending grace to persons?
- What role does spiritual authority play in the church, and how should it be exercised today?
Analysis & Commentary
For I verily, as absent in body, but present in spirit—Paul's apostolic authority transcended physical presence. Though in Ephesus (16:8), he was spiritually united with the Corinthian church and could exercise apostolic judgment. Have judged already, as though I were present (ἤδη κέκρικα ὡς παρών)—the perfect tense kekrisa indicates a settled, completed decision. Paul didn't need more information; the facts were clear, and judgment was rendered.
Concerning him that hath so done this deed (τὸν οὕτως τοῦτο κατεργασάμενον)—the verb katergazomai suggests deliberate, ongoing action, not a one-time fall. This was persistent, unrepentant immorality. Paul's decisive judgment models pastoral courage—some situations demand immediate action, not endless deliberation. The church is called to judge those within (vv. 12-13), distinguishing truth from error, holiness from sin. Discipline isn't optional when the gospel's witness is at stake.