1Ti 1:20 CSB Among them are Hymenaeus and Alexander, whom I have delivered to Satan, so that they may be taught not to blaspheme.
Paul’s prescription for these two blasphemers was that they be handed over to Satan, a phrase which perhaps refers to excommunication from the congregation and abandonment to realms controlled by Satan. Paul viewed the congregation as a haven and protection for believers without which they would suffer painful disadvantage. Thus excommunication was designed to chasten the two apostates. Yet Paul’s motive was remedial, not punitive.
