This essay makes a case for identifying the "offender" in 2 Corinthians 2:5 and 2 Corinthians 7:12 with the sinner of 1 Corinthians 5. The contacts between Paul and the Corinthians in the period between the writing of 1 and 2 Corinthians is also set out. Kruse considers the possibility that the offence was most likely committed during this period.

The author wants to apply classical rhetorical criticism to determine whether "sarx" and "pneuma" in 1 Corinthians 5:5 might be a reference to the church in Corinth and not to the offender. The rhetorical arrangement of 1 Corinthians 5:1-13 is explored.

This article is a Bible study on 1 Corinthians 5:1-13.