◄ 1 Corinthians 11 ►
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Summary Sharing in the Lord’s Supper 1 Corinthians 11 reminds us of the importance of respect and propriety within our Christian community. Paul's discussion on headship and worship practices calls us to be mindful of our conduct and the traditions we uphold. His rebuke concerning the Lord's Supper serves as a sober reminder of the sacredness of this tradition, urging us to approach it with reverence and self-examination. Above all, this chapter calls us to unity and mutual respect in our observance of Christian practices. Verses 1-16: Headship and Propriety in Worship Paul starts by urging the Corinthians to follow his example as he follows Christ's. He then discusses the concept of headship and the distinctions between men and women. He talks about appropriate conduct during worship, highlighting the significance of a woman's head covering as a symbol of authority. Verses 17-22: Problems with the Lord's Supper Paul reprimands the Corinthians for their misconduct during communal meals, which are supposed to be a time of sharing and unity. He criticizes them for turning it into a time of division and selfishness. Verses 23-34: The Proper Conduct at the Lord's Supper Paul reminds the Corinthians of the tradition he received from the Lord about the Lord's Supper. He stresses the significance of this act as a proclamation of the Lord's death until He comes again. He warns them about the consequences of participating in an unworthy manner and urges them to examine themselves before partaking. In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul addresses a variety of issues concerning proper conduct and observance of traditions within the Christian community. He speaks of headship and the distinctions between men and women, calling for propriety in worship. The chapter also covers the tradition of the Lord's Supper, with Paul reminding the Corinthians of its significance and admonishing them for their conduct during its observance. Teaching Points Headship and Order Paul emphasizes the principle of headship, stating, But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God (1 Corinthians 11:3). This establishes a divine order that reflects both authority and responsibility. Cultural Practices and Worship The discussion on head coverings (1 Corinthians 11:4-16) highlights the importance of cultural expressions in worship. Paul advises that women should cover their heads as a sign of authority and respect, while men should not, reflecting the customs of the time. The Lord's Supper Paul provides instructions on the proper observance of the Lord's Supper, warning against partaking in an unworthy manner. He writes, For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body eats and drinks judgment on himself (1 Corinthians 11:29). This underscores the need for self-examination and reverence. Practical Applications Respecting Divine Order Recognize and honor the roles and responsibilities God has established within the family and the church, fostering mutual respect and love. Cultural Sensitivity in Worship Be mindful of cultural expressions and traditions in worship settings, ensuring they align with biblical principles and promote unity. Reverence in Communion Approach the Lord's Supper with a heart of humility and self-examination, acknowledging its significance as a proclamation of the Lord's death until He comes. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of 1 Corinthians, and in chapter 11, he addresses issues related to worship practices and the roles of men and women in the church. He emphasizes the importance of following the traditions he has passed down, as seen in 1 Corinthians 11:1-2: "Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ. Now I commend you for remembering me in everything and for maintaining the traditions, just as I passed them on to you." 2. Christ Christ is central to Paul's teachings and is presented as the head of every man. In 1 Corinthians 11:3, Paul states: "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God." The Greek word for "head" (κεφαλή, kephalē) is often discussed in theological contexts regarding authority and source. 3. Man Man is discussed in relation to his role and responsibilities in worship and family. Paul explains that man is the image and glory of God, as seen in 1 Corinthians 11:7: "A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man." 4. Woman Woman is addressed in terms of her role in worship and her relationship to man. Paul discusses the cultural practice of head coverings and the symbolic meaning behind it. In 1 Corinthians 11:5, he writes: "And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is just as if her head were shaved." 5. God God is the ultimate authority and the head of Christ, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 11:3: "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God." This establishes a hierarchy that Paul uses to explain the order of authority and submission. Places 1. Corinth While not explicitly mentioned in 1 Corinthians 11, the letter is addressed to the church in Corinth. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth, commerce, and diverse population. The cultural and social dynamics of Corinth influenced the issues addressed by Paul in his letters. 2. Church Gatherings The chapter discusses practices within the context of church gatherings, particularly concerning head coverings and the Lord's Supper. These gatherings would have taken place in homes or designated meeting places within Corinth. 3. The Lord's Supper Paul provides instructions on the proper observance of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the need for reverence and self-examination. This practice would have been central to the worship life of the early Christian community in Corinth. While these are not specific geographical locations, they provide context for understanding the setting and issues addressed in 1 Corinthians 11. The chapter is more focused on the conduct and practices of the Corinthian church rather than specific places. Events 1. Imitation of Christ and Paul Paul begins by urging the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ. This sets the tone for the instructions that follow, emphasizing the importance of following Christ-like examples. ^"Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ."^ (1 Corinthians 11:1) 2. Head Coverings and Authority Paul discusses the cultural practice of head coverings, emphasizing the order of authority: God, Christ, man, and woman. He explains that a man should not cover his head because he is the image and glory of God, while a woman should cover her head as a sign of authority. ^"But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God."^ (1 Corinthians 11:3) 3. Nature and Propriety in Worship Paul appeals to nature and propriety, arguing that long hair is a disgrace for a man but a glory for a woman, as it is given to her as a covering. This reflects the cultural norms of the time regarding gender distinctions. ^"Does not nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory?"^ (1 Corinthians 11:14-15) 4. Instructions on the Lord’s Supper Paul addresses issues related to the Lord’s Supper, criticizing the Corinthians for divisions and improper conduct during the meal. He emphasizes the importance of unity and reverence in partaking of the Lord’s Supper. ^"When you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat."^ (1 Corinthians 11:20) 5. Recollection of the Institution of the Lord’s Supper Paul recounts the institution of the Lord’s Supper, reminding the Corinthians of Jesus’ words and actions during the Last Supper. This serves as a model for how they should observe the meal. ^"For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread..."^ (1 Corinthians 11:23) 6. Examination Before Partaking Paul instructs believers to examine themselves before partaking in the Lord’s Supper to avoid eating and drinking judgment upon themselves. This self-examination is crucial for maintaining the sanctity of the observance. ^"Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup."^ (1 Corinthians 11:28) 7. Consequences of Unworthy Participation Paul warns of the consequences of partaking in the Lord’s Supper in an unworthy manner, which can lead to judgment, including physical weakness, illness, and even death. This underscores the seriousness of the sacrament. ^"That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep."^ (1 Corinthians 11:30) 8. Call for Order and Consideration Paul concludes with a call for order and consideration during gatherings, urging the Corinthians to wait for one another and eat at home if they are hungry, to ensure that their meetings are conducted properly. ^"So then, my brothers and sisters, when you gather to eat, you should all eat together."^ (1 Corinthians 11:33) Connections to Additional Scriptures Ephesians 5:22-33 Explores the relationship between husbands and wives, paralleling the relationship between Christ and the church. Colossians 3:18-25 Offers guidance on family and social relationships, emphasizing the importance of doing everything in the name of the Lord. Matthew 26:26-29 Describes the institution of the Lord's Supper, providing a foundation for its observance. Prayer Points Pray for wisdom and understanding to discern and apply God's order in our lives and relationships. Ask for a heart of humility and respect for cultural expressions that honor God in worship. Seek God's guidance in approaching the Lord's Supper with reverence and gratitude, recognizing its profound significance. As we study 1 Corinthians 11, may we be encouraged to align our lives with God's design, honoring Him in our worship and relationships. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Paul's discussion on headship apply to the modern-day church? 2. What do you understand by the concept of following traditions in the church? 3. How do we ensure our conduct during worship is appropriate and respectful? 4. What does the practice of the Lord's Supper mean to you? 5. How should we approach the Lord's Supper in light of Paul's warnings? 6. How can we cultivate unity and mutual respect during communal gatherings? 7. What are some of the ways we can examine ourselves before partaking in the Lord's Supper? 8. How does Paul's discussion on the distinctions between men and women in worship relate to your cultural or societal context? 9. In what ways can the church address issues of division and selfishness during communal gatherings? 10. How can we, as individuals and as a church community, ensure we are following Christ's example? 11. What do the concepts of headship and authority mean in your personal life? 12. How can we balance tradition with progress in the church? 13. How can Paul's discussion on propriety in worship inform our church's policies and practices? 14. How can we apply Paul's teachings on the Lord's Supper in our Christian walk? 15. What lessons can we learn from Paul's rebuke of the Corinthians' behavior during the Lord's Supper? 16. How should the concept of headship influence our relationships within the Christian community? 17. In what ways can the Lord's Supper foster unity in a diverse church community? 18. What steps can we take to ensure we are observing the Lord's Supper in a worthy manner? 19. How can Paul's admonitions in this chapter be applied to other aspects of Christian life and conduct? 20. What does self-examination look like in a practical sense before partaking in the Lord's Supper? Topics 1. Imitation of Christ and Apostolic Tradition (1 Corinthians 11:1-2) Paul urges the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ, emphasizing adherence to the traditions he has passed on. The Greek word "παράδοσις" (paradosis) refers to teachings or traditions handed down. 2. Head Coverings and Authority (1 Corinthians 11:3-16) Paul discusses the order of authority, stating, "the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife is her husband, and the head of Christ is God" (v. 3). He addresses the practice of head coverings for women during prayer or prophecy, linking it to cultural expressions of honor and authority. The Greek term "κεφαλή" (kephalē) is often debated, traditionally understood as "head" or "authority." 3. Proper Conduct at the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-22) Paul criticizes the Corinthians for divisions and improper behavior during the Lord’s Supper, highlighting the need for unity and reverence. The Greek word "σχίσματα" (schismata) refers to divisions or factions. 4. Institution of the Lord’s Supper (1 Corinthians 11:23-26) Paul recounts the institution of the Lord’s Supper, quoting Jesus: "This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me" (v. 24). The Greek term "ἀνάμνησις" (anamnēsis) means remembrance or memorial. 5. Self-Examination and Judgment (1 Corinthians 11:27-34) Paul warns against partaking in the Lord’s Supper unworthily, urging self-examination to avoid judgment. The Greek word "δοκιμάζω" (dokimazō) means to test or examine oneself. Themes 1. Headship and Authority In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul discusses the concept of headship, emphasizing the order of authority: "But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God" (1 Corinthians 11:3). The Greek word for "head" (κεφαλή, kephalē) implies leadership and authority, establishing a hierarchy within relationships. 2. Cultural Practices and Worship Paul addresses cultural practices related to head coverings during worship: "Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head" (1 Corinthians 11:4-5). The discussion reflects the cultural norms of the time and the importance of maintaining decorum in worship settings. 3. Gender Distinctions and Honor The passage highlights the importance of gender distinctions and honoring one's head: "For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off" (1 Corinthians 11:6). The Greek term for "dishonor" (ἀτιμία, atimia) suggests a loss of respect or dignity, underscoring the significance of adhering to cultural symbols of honor. 4. Creation Order and Interdependence Paul refers to the creation order to explain gender roles: "For man did not come from woman, but woman from man" (1 Corinthians 11:8). However, he also emphasizes interdependence: "Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman" (1 Corinthians 11:11). This balance reflects the mutual respect and reliance between genders. 5. Propriety in Worship The chapter stresses the importance of propriety and order in worship: "Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered?" (1 Corinthians 11:13). The Greek word for "proper" (πρέπον, prepon) indicates what is fitting or suitable, highlighting the need for appropriate conduct in communal worship. 6. The Lord’s Supper and Unity Paul addresses issues related to the Lord’s Supper, urging unity and reverence: "For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes" (1 Corinthians 11:26). The focus is on the communal aspect of the meal and the proclamation of faith, emphasizing the need for self-examination and unity among believers. 7. Self-Examination and Judgment The chapter concludes with a call for self-examination before partaking in the Lord’s Supper: "Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup" (1 Corinthians 11:28). The Greek term for "examine" (δοκιμάζω, dokimazō) suggests testing or proving oneself, underscoring the importance of introspection and sincerity in worship. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions