SOAP stands for Scripture, Observation, Application and Prayer. Today’s journal comes from reading 1 Corinthians 5.

Scripture

“Your boasting is not good. Do you not know that a little leaven leavens the whole lump of dough?” –1 Corinthians 5:6

Observation

The Corinthians tolerated sexual immorality in their midst. They didn’t deal with sin. Paul didn’t call this “compassion,” he called it “boasting” that was not good.

A little leaven spreads through the whole lump of dough, likewise, as little sin spreads and defiles the whole body.

Application

Sin can not be ignored. It defiles the whole church. I so often hear believers talk of sin as if it’s no big deal, and we all sin all the time. But this refers to obvious, blatant, public sin. If we tolerate that, the church will be defiled.

Prayer

Father, I am grateful that the blood of Jesus cleanses us from all sin. Jesus is my only hope of salvation. But He also calls me to holy living. The lack of holiness is defiling and weakening Your church. Help me to be holy without becoming a Pharisee. And help me to teach accurately and inspire others to holiness as well. And when necessary, help me confront sin with courage and compassion.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.