In Paul's day, the Corinthian church had many problems. This text highlights Paul's rationale for dealing with a believer who was flaunting his sexual immorality by openly living in sin (v.1-2)

Paul's primary concern was not the sinning person, but the integrity of the Body of Christ. Leaven is yeast. Yeast is the additive that makes bread rise and look impressive. Yeast does not create more bread, it only provides the illusion of more substance. We live in a culture where inflated personalities and false spirituality are the norm. The smiles of too many only mask their hidden contempt.

Paul used the occasion to remind the Corinthians, and us, that God wants us to get leaven out of our lives and churches. Nothing in Jesus is pretentious or phony. He is completely sincere and true, and we should reflect the same.

Are we examples of the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth, or not?

The definition of sincere: Being in reality what it appears to be; having a character which corresponds with the appearance.