1 Corinthians 5:12 (KJV) states: "For what have I to do to judge them also that are without? do not ye judge them that are within?"

This verse comes in the midst of the apostle Paul's instructions to the Corinthians regarding how they should handle sin within the church. In the previous verses, Paul had rebuked the Corinthians for allowing a man who was living in sexual immorality to remain in their fellowship without any discipline. In this verse, Paul is addressing the Corinthians' responsibility to judge those within the church and their lack of authority over those outside the church.

The verse begins with the questioning, "For what have I to do to judge them also that are without?" Here, Paul is making it clear that it is not the responsibility of Christians to judge those who are not part of the church. He is pointing out the fact that the church has no authority or jurisdiction over those who are not believers. This idea is in line with Jesus' teaching in Matthew 7:1-2, where he says, "Judge not, that ye be not judged. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and with what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again." The focus of this verse is on self-reflection and accountability rather than condemnation.

Paul then follows with the question, "do not ye judge them that are within?" Here, Paul is reminding the Corinthians that they do have a responsibility to judge and discipline those within the church. The church is meant to be a community of believers who hold each other accountable and help each other grow in their faith. This idea is reinforced in Galatians 6:1, which says, "Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted."

The overarching theme of this verse is the importance of accountability within the church. It highlights the need for believers to hold each other to a high standard of moral and ethical conduct and to address sin within the community. However, it also emphasizes the fact that Christians should not be quick to judge or condemn those who are not part of the church. The focus should be on self-examination and mutual edification, rather than pointing fingers at those outside the faith.

The context of this verse within the larger passage is crucial for understanding its significance. In the preceding verses, Paul admonishes the Corinthians for their tolerance of sin within the church and urges them to take action to remove the immoral man from their midst. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining a holy and pure community, free from the influence of sin. By placing 1 Corinthians 5:12 within this context, Paul is reminding the Corinthians of their duty to maintain the integrity and purity of the church through accountable judgment and discipline.

Symbolically, this verse represents the balance between exercising discernment within the church and showing grace toward those outside the church. It serves as a reminder that Christians are called to live in a way that demonstrates the love and grace of Christ to the world, while also upholding the standards of righteousness and holiness within the community of believers.

In conclusion, 1 Corinthians 5:12 (KJV) provides a thought-provoking reminder of the responsibilities of Christians within and outside the church. It emphasizes the need for self-examination, accountability, and mutual edification among believers, while also highlighting the importance of showing grace and love to those who are not part of the faith. This verse challenges us to consider our role in maintaining the purity and integrity of the church, while also being mindful of our interactions with the world around us.