Understanding 1 Corinthians 11:21
Verse: "For in eating, every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken."
Bible Verse Meaning
This verse addresses issues surrounding the Lord's Supper or Communion in the Corinthian church. The apostle Paul critiques the behavior of the members of the church during communal meals, specifically focusing on their lack of unity and care for one another.
Bible Verse Interpretation
The Corinthians were exploiting the communal meal, leading to disparity among members. This act of self-indulgence did not reflect the unity intended in Christ's body, causing divisions among believers. Each person was consumed with their own needs, disregarding the needs of others.
Bible Verse Understanding
Paul emphasizes that the true spirit of the Lord's Supper calls for mutual consideration and love among believers. The fellowship is meant to reflect Christ’s love, pointing towards the communal aspect of being one body in Christ, rather than selfish individualism.
Bible Verse Explanation
- Context: In the Corinthian church, there were social and economic divisions. Some members indulged in excess while others lacked basic provisions during communal meals.
- Critique: Paul admonishes the church for their behavior, which mirrors their division instead of the unity the Lord's Supper symbolizes.
- Spiritual Implications: The verse challenges believers to reflect on their communal practices and emphasizes that honoring God includes honoring one another.
Insights from Commentaries
Matthew Henry: In his commentary, Henry states that the Lord's Supper should be treated with reverence and designed as a time for self-examination and togetherness. The Corinthians’ behavior was inconsistent with the teachings of Christ.
Albert Barnes: Barnes notes the implications of selfishness, highlighting that the Corinthians failed to recognize the sacredness of the meal. He argues that their conduct led them to misrepresent the essence of the fellowship established by Christ.
Adam Clarke: Clarke emphasizes the communal aspect of these meals, lamenting the divide between the rich and poor in the church. He suggests that the proper observance of the Lord's Supper should cultivate unity among believers.
Significance for Bible Study Groups
This verse provides rich material for Bible study groups, particularly in discussions about the significance of communal worship and the importance of reflecting Christ's love towards one another.
Related Bible Cross References
- 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 - Unity in partaking of the body of Christ
- Acts 2:44-46 - The early church shared everything in common
- Galatians 5:13-15 - Serving one another in love
- James 2:1-9 - Warning against favoritism
- Luke 22:19-20 - The institution of the Lord's Supper
Application of Bible Verse to Daily Life
Believers are encouraged to reflect on their behavior in communal settings, ensuring that their actions promote love and unity. The Lord’s Supper serves not only as a memorial of Christ’s sacrifice but also as a reminder of the accountability we have towards our brothers and sisters in faith.
Conclusion
1 Corinthians 11:21 serves as a poignant reminder of the qualities that should define a Christian fellowship. Through understanding this verse, one can gain profound Bible verse meanings, interpretations, and a deeper understanding of Scripture—a necessity for any serious engagement in Bible study.
