Online Bible Commentary
Select Language
Select font sizeDark ModeSet to dark mode
HomeBible Commentary1 CorinthiansChapter 111 Corinthians 11:34

1 Corinthians 11:34 meaning

In examining the issues at stake within the Corinthian church, it is crucial to understand the context of their behavior at the Lord's Supper. The Corinthian Christians displayed blatant disregard for the community aspect of their worship, leading to divisions and contempt for poorer members. They approached the Lord’s Table as an occasion for self-indulgence rather than a sacred remembrance, resulting in disorder during what was fundamentally meant to unite them. The apostle Paul sternly addresses these issues, articulating that their actions were not reflective of the true purpose of the Lord's Supper. He emphasizes the importance of discerning the body of Christ—recognizing its sacred nature and the unity it provides among believers.

This atmosphere of selfishness in communal meals led Paul to significantly caution the Corinthians to re—examine their motives. Specifically, he instructs them that if they are hungry, they should eat at home rather than use the communal gathering for personal satisfaction. This warning highlights the necessity for self-examination and consideration of others within the church community to avoid condemnation. Such behavior against the purpose of the Supper serves to underline the essential Christian principle of love and unity among the followers of Christ. The passage conveys a powerful reminder about the dignity that should accompany participation in sacred observances: “...if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation..." (1 Corinthians 11:34).

Other Relevant Commentaries:

  • Luke 1:34-38 meaning. Luke 1:34-38: The Annunciation: Mary asks how she could conceive a child since she is a virgin. The angel explains that the Holy Spirit will come upon her, making the conception a divine miracle. He assures her that nothing is impossible with God, citing Elizabeth’s own miraculous pregnancy as a sign. Mary responds with humble faith, calling herself the bondslave of the Lord and accepting the message as God's will.
  • 1 Corinthians 3:1-4 meaning. Paul reprimands the Corinthians because of their immaturity. They were once newborn babes when they first believed in Jesus, and yet they have not grown since then. Paul wishes he could teach them deeper spiritual truths, but he is stuck having to teach them basics because of the jealousy and tribalism they are engaged in. Some Corinthians say they only follow Paul, while others only follow Apollos. This is a meaningless argument they are having. Paul shows them they are being sinful, not spiritual.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:8-16 meaning. 1 Corinthians 7:8-16 records Paul’s reflections that unmarried believers in the Corinthian church don’t need to feel like they have to get married. Being unmarried is a good state to be in; Paul himself is not married. But for the person who desires a sexual relationship, it is better for them to get married instead of falling into temptation and sexual immorality. Nor should married people get divorced; God hates divorce and commands against it. From his own personal counsel, Paul instructs the believers who are already married to stay with their spouses if they are a believer but their spouse is not. Their faith and example can benefit their spouse, potentially leading them to faith in Jesus too. But if an unbelieving spouse ends the marriage, that is permissible; the believing spouse has not sinned.