1 Corinthians 11
-In this chapter Paul addresses two concerns for the church
in Corinth, one he commends their actions, and the other he does not commend.
He begins with his commendation (praise) of their following in the traditions
he delivered to them as far as head coverings (1 Corinthians 11:1-16). The
issue here is over authority and properly recognizing order in the church of
God. *Application* All authority originates with the Heavenly Father and flows
down from His throne. There should be proper respect given at each level for
the edification of the body as a whole. This is the culture of honor that God wants
in His church (Romans 12, 1 Corinthians 12). The situation seemed to be
adequate in this church, but can be an issue as we know in a world where
women’s desire is often to dominate men and entire organizations (Genesis
3:16). This was part of the curse when sin entered the world and has become
known as a Jezebel spirit of demonic proportions (1 Kings 16-21, 2 Kings 9,
Revelation 2:20-23). The point is for all of us to recognize all God-given
authority in His church for the proper respect, process, and order.
-Next Paul corrects some misuse of the Lord’s Supper as the
believers had been coming to the table of communion improperly and with greed
(1 Corinthians 11:17-33). Paul again reiterates, for the purpose of correction
and edification, their errors with factions and divisions displaying arrogant
attitudes within the body of Christ. He strongly rebukes their insincere manner
of coming before the Lord’s alter of remembrance of His body and blood. He
tells them that many are weak and ill because of their disobedience and some
have even died (1 Corinthians 11:30). Paul asks them to judge themselves
“truly” when they come to the table so that they would not have to be judged by
God (1 Corinthians 11:31). The righteous judgment of God disciplines so that we
may not be condemned along with the unsaved world (1 Corinthians 11:32).
*Application* The Bible says that judgment should begin at the house of God (1 Peter
4:17). After we get the log out of our own eye and can see clearly (Matthew 7:5,
Luke 6:42), we have a responsibility to guide and correct those within the church
with Christian-brotherly love and kindness. This is what accountability is all about
and keeps each of us from wondering off the straight and narrow path of God’s way.
I would rather be corrected by Godly men than by God, wouldn’t you?
Verse to Memorize- 1
Corinthians 11:31
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