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HomeBible Commentary1 CorinthiansChapter 111 Corinthians 11:28

1 Corinthians 11:28 meaning

In this passage, Paul addresses the importance of self-examination before partaking in the Lord’s Supper, which serves as a vital reminder of Christ’s sacrifice. The Corinthians had been partaking carelessly, losing the significance of this holy act. Paul encourages believers to assess their hearts and attitudes to ensure they are honoring Christ’s body and blood when they partake. This self-examination emphasizes an awareness of the communal nature of the body of Christ, urging believers to foster unity and love among one another rather than indulge in selfishness and division.

As stated, “let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup” (1 Corinthians 11:28). The self-examination serves to prevent the severe consequences that come from disrespecting this sacred ordinance, which can lead to divine judgment among the people. The passage highlights that while none are worthy in their own merit, participating in a manner that acknowledges Christ’s sacrifice can transform the act into a source of life and unity, reflecting what it means to be part of Christ's body.

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Genesis 11:27-32 meaning. Genesis 11:27-32 tell the story of Abram’s father Terah and the family leaving Ur for Canaan only to go as far as Haran where Terah dies.
  • 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 meaning. 1 Corinthians 2:6-9 contrasts the wisdom of God with the wisdom of this world. The wisdom of the world changes. Its values, priorities, and standards are fickle. God’s wisdom is unchanging truth. God’s wisdom is mysterious, that He should send His Son to die for the world. Had the wise, powerful human authorities understood God’s wisdom, they would not have crucified Jesus. But they could not comprehend God’s wise plan, and acted on their own misguided agenda. In making this contrast, Paul is directing his readers to follow God, not men.
  • 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 meaning. 1 Corinthians 5:9-13 contains a clarification from Paul regarding who to associate with. He makes clear that it is right to disassociate from a believer who is openly sinning and will not repent. But this does not mean believers ought to shun the unsaved for their sin. Of course the unsaved sin. They are not in Christ; they cannot be expected to not sin or view sin as bad. We are called to preach the gospel to unbelievers, not to ignore them. But for believers in Christ who are sinning (for example, they covet, or worship an idol, or are hateful, or are a cheat, or a willing alcoholic) and do not want to stop sinning, do not want to change, then we should exile them from our lives. We should not be friends with Christians who want to go on sinning without repentance. God will judge nonbelievers. That is not our business. But wicked Christians will corrupt the church and should be sent out, in hopes that they repent of their sin and come back.