1 Corinthians 11 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

The True Meaning of 1 Corinthians 11

The First Epistle to the Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of the early Christian church who experienced a dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus. After his conversion, Paul became a zealous missionary, spreading the gospel throughout the Roman Empire. Paul addresses several issues within the Corinthian church in this chapter, including the proper conduct during worship and the observance of the Lord’s Supper. He reminds the Corinthians of the significance of these practices and the importance of maintaining unity and reverence within the community of believers.

Paul’s teachings in this chapter echo his admonitions in other epistles, such as his emphasis on the unity of the body of Christ (Romans 12:4-5) and the need for believers to live in a manner worthy of the gospel (Philippians 1:27). Paul’s guidance sought to strengthen the faith of the Corinthian church and ensure that they centered their worship and fellowship on the person and work of Jesus Christ as they grappled with these challenges.

1 Corinthians 11:1-2

Paul states in 1 Corinthians 11:1-2, “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ.” Now I commend you because you remember me in everything and maintain the traditions even as I delivered them to you. Paul urges the Corinthians to imitate him as he imitates Christ in the first part. This is a bold statement, as Paul is setting himself as an example worthy of emulation. His life and actions were so aligned with the teachings and character of Christ that he felt confident in encouraging others to follow his example. Paul’s life had been transformed by his encounter with Christ on the road to Damascus, and he dedicated himself fully to spreading the Gospel and living in obedience to Christ.

The idea of imitating others in their faith is a recurring theme in the Bible. Hebrews 13:7 also encourages believers to remember their leaders and imitate their faith. It underscores the importance of having godly examples in our lives who can model what it means to live a life pleasing to God. We, as Christians, should strive to find mentors and role models who exemplify the principles and values of the Gospel, guiding us in our journey of faith. Paul commends the Corinthians in the second part of the verse for remembering him and holding fast to the traditions he had passed on to them. This emphasizes the importance of passing down teachings and practices that are consistent with the Gospel message. Paul had established a strong foundation of faith among the Corinthians during his time with them, and he was pleased to see them continuing to uphold these teachings.

Traditions in the Christian faith can refer to both doctrinal beliefs and practical expressions of faith. The early church relied heavily on oral tradition, with teachings and practices being passed down from generation to generation. It was crucial for the Corinthian church to preserve these traditions to ensure the continuity and purity of the faith. These verses remind us of the significance of discipleship in the Christian walk in a broader sense. Just as Paul invested in the Corinthians and guided them in their faith journey, we are called to do the same for others. Mentoring and teaching others in the ways of Christ is a fundamental aspect of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), where believers are instructed to make disciples of all nations. This verse serves as a reminder for us to not only live out our faith authentically but also to pass it on to future generations, ensuring the endurance of the Gospel message.

1 Corinthians 11:3-6

The verses in 1 Corinthians 11:3-6 state, “But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God.” Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head—it is the same as having her head shaved. For if a woman does not cover her head, she might as well have her hair cut off; but if it is a disgrace for a woman to have her hair cut off or her head shaved, then she should cover her head. Paul emphasizes the importance of order within the Christian community and the role of headship in these verses. He establishes a hierarchical structure – God is the head of Christ, Christ is the head of man, and man is the head of woman. This view of headship reflects the hierarchical structure within the Trinity and is not meant to imply superiority or inferiority, but rather the idea of divine order and responsibility within relationships.

The mention of covering one’s head during prayer or prophecy was a cultural sign of respect and submission during that time. Men were expected to pray with their heads uncovered as a sign of reverence to Christ, who is their head. On the other hand, women were to pray with their heads covered as a symbol of submission to their husbands, who are their heads. Women dishonored their heads by uncovering them while praying or prophesying, which was considered dishonorable and akin to having their heads shaved – a symbol of shame and disgrace in that society.

This guidance from Paul should be understood in the historical and cultural context of the time, where symbols and gestures carried significant meaning. The underlying principle here is about maintaining order, respect, and propriety within the church community. It speaks to the importance of understanding and respecting cultural norms while also emphasizing the principles of hierarchy and submission within relationships. These verses moreover highlight the concept of unity and mutual respect within the body of believers. Understanding and following the established order helps to maintain harmony and respect among members of the community. Paul’s teachings in this passage aim to encourage humility, honor, and decency in worship and interactions within the church. Paul discusses the relationship between husbands and wives in various passages in the broader context of the Bible, such as Ephesians 5:22-33, drawing parallels between the love of Christ for the church and the love between spouses. The principle of mutual submission and respect is reiterated throughout the New Testament, emphasizing the importance of humility and serving one another in love.

1 Corinthians 11:7-12

This section of 1 Corinthians 11:7-12 is a passage that talks about the nature of man and woman in relation to each other and to God. Let’s break it down into smaller sections for a thorough commentary.

1. “A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. Man is the image and glory of God in this verse, while the woman is the glory of man. This passage has been interpreted in various ways throughout history. Some have used it to argue for hierarchical gender roles, where man is seen as superior because he reflects the image of God more directly. However, it is crucial to understand that both man and woman are equally created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), implying equal worth and dignity. It is important not to misconstrue this verse to promote inequality between men and women. Rather, it highlights the interconnectedness and mutual dependence between the sexes.

2. “For man did not come from woman, but woman from man; neither was man created for woman, but woman for man.”

This section discusses the order of creation, referring to the creation of Eve from Adam’s rib in the book of Genesis (Genesis 2:21-22). It underscores the idea that woman was created for man as a companion and helper (Genesis 2:18). However, this should not be viewed as implying inferiority on the part of woman but rather as emphasizing the importance of companionship and partnership between man and woman. Both genders have unique roles and functions in the divine plan.

1. “It is for this reason that a woman ought to have authority over her own head, because of the angels.”

This verse is somewhat enigmatic and has led to various interpretations. Some scholars suggest that the reference to angels could indicate a symbolic or spiritual significance related to the observance of God’s order and the angels as witnesses to it. It could also be interpreted as a call for women to exercise control over their own actions and decisions regarding their roles in the church and society. This passage may highlight the need for women to have autonomy and agency in their lives, recognizing their accountability to God in how they exercise their authority.

1. “Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman.”

This verse emphasizes the interdependence of man and woman in the Lord. It counters any notions of superiority or inferiority between the genders and underscores the significance of mutual respect, cooperation, and partnership. Both man and woman are vital to God’s plan and are intended to complement each other in their respective roles. This reminds us of the unity and equality that should exist within the body of Christ, where each member, regardless of gender, has a unique and valuable contribution to make (1 Corinthians 12:12-27). This passage from 1 Corinthians 11 sheds light on the intricate relationship between man and woman within the context of God’s creation and purpose. It underscores the equality, mutual dependence, and interconnection between the sexes, emphasizing the importance of respecting each other’s roles and gifts. We reflect on these verses, reminding us of the need to uphold love, respect, and equality in all relationships, honoring the diverse ways in which God has created and called each individual.

1 Corinthians 11:13-16

The apostle Paul addresses the issue of head coverings in the church, particularly concerning women, in 1 Corinthians 11:13-16. Let’s break down this verse into key sections:

1. Verse 13: “Judge for yourselves: is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered?”

Within this section, Paul calls upon the Corinthians to think and reason for themselves regarding the appropriateness of women praying with uncovered heads. Wearing a head covering in this cultural context signified submission and respect for authority. Paul prompts the Corinthians to consider the societal norms and expectations regarding modesty and reverence in worship by raising this question. This also emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity within the church, as practices and customs may vary based on the context.

1. Verse 14: “Does not nature itself teach you that if a man wears long hair, it is degrading to him,”

Here, Paul draws upon the idea of natural order to make his point. In the socio-cultural context of the time, people made a distinction between the appearance of men and women, including hair length. For a man to have long hair was seen as contrary to the societal norms and potentially dishonorable. Paul is highlighting the importance of respecting established norms and roles within the community by referencing nature’s teachings. This serves as a reminder to the Corinthians that while they are free in Christ, they should be mindful of not causing unnecessary offense or confusion in matters that are non-essential to the faith.

1. Verse 15: “but if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For her hair is given to her for a covering.”

Paul contrasts the perception of long hair on men versus women, suggesting that for women, having long hair is a source of glory. He acknowledges that long hair serves as a natural covering for women, which reflects the beauty and honor associated with femininity. This notion of glory ties back to the creation account where woman was created as a “helper” for man (Genesis 2:18), emphasizing her unique role and significance in God’s design. Paul’s emphasis on the roles and distinctions between men and women aligns with other passages in the New Testament that address gender roles within the church and society (Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Timothy 2:8-15).

1. Verse 16: “If anyone is inclined to be contentious, we have no such practice, nor do the churches of God. Paul addresses any potential dissent or disagreement that may arise from his instructions on head coverings in this concluding verse. He affirms that if there are those who wish to argue against this practice, it is important to note that such a practice is not universal across all churches. Paul’s emphasis here is on maintaining unity and order within the body of Christ. This verse underscores the importance of humility, respect for authority, and love for one another in matters where different cultural practices may exist. These verses in 1 Corinthians 11 highlight the importance of cultural sensitivity, respect for established norms, and maintaining unity within the church. While the specific issue of head coverings may not hold the same significance in all cultural contexts today, the principles underlying Paul’s guidance – respect, order, and unity – remain relevant for believers as they navigate varied cultural expressions of faith. Paul’s teachings remind us of the need to prioritize love and harmony in the body of Christ, honoring one another’s backgrounds and traditions while holding fast to the unchanging truths of the gospel.

1 Corinthians 11:17-22

Paul addresses the Corinthian church about their behavior during the celebration of the Lord’s Supper in 1 Corinthians 11:17-22. The passage begins with Paul commending them for holding to the traditions he passed on to them. However, he quickly shifts the tone, expressing his disappointment in hearing that there are divisions and quarrels among them when they come together as a church.

Paul emphasizes the seriousness of the situation by stating that their gatherings do more harm than good. The division among the Corinthians had escalated to the point where the wealthy were eating and drinking excessively during the Lord’s Supper, while the poor were being humiliated by not having enough to eat. This behavior displays a lack of consideration and love for one another within the body of believers.

This section of the passage underscores key themes in the Bible such as unity, love, and equality among believers. The early Christian church faced various challenges regarding social status, wealth, and cultural backgrounds. Paul’s rebuke of the Corinthian church reflects the importance of maintaining unity and equality among believers, regardless of social or economic differences.

Paul’s teachings in this passage are in line with Jesus’ emphasis on humility and servanthood. Jesus addresses the issue of greatness among his disciples in Luke 22:24-27, teaching them that true greatness is demonstrated through serving others. The Corinthian church’s behavior during the Lord’s Supper is a stark contrast to Jesus’ teachings on love and selflessness. Believers should examine their attitudes and actions towards one another within the body of Christ as a reminder. It emphasizes the importance of humility, unity, and love in the practice of the Lord’s Supper and in the broader context of Christian community. Paul’s words challenge us to reflect on how we treat our fellow believers and to strive for unity in the midst of diversity.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26

1. The important sections in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 are as follows:

2. “For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said, ‘This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me. He took the cup after supper, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me.” For whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes.”

3. The Apostle Paul is recounting the words and actions of Jesus during the Last Supper that He shared with His disciples in this section. It is crucial not only for its historical significance but also for the theological implications it carries.

4. “The night he was betrayed”: This phrase highlights the tremendous love and sacrifice of Jesus, knowing that He was about to be betrayed and crucified, yet instituting the sacrament of Communion to be a memorial of His sacrifice. This betrayal points to the events later unfolding with Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ own disciples who betrayed Him for thirty pieces of silver (Matthew 26:14-16).

5. “This is my body… This cup is the new covenant in my blood”: These words of Jesus signify the institution of the Lord’s Supper, where the bread represents His body broken for us, and the cup represents the new covenant sealed in His blood, bringing forgiveness and reconciliation between God and humanity. This act has deep roots in the Old Testament, particularly the Passover meal where a lamb was sacrificed and its blood served as a sign of protection from God’s judgment (Exodus 12:1-13). Believers are called to remember and commemorate the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross for the forgiveness of sins by partaking in the bread and cup. This act serves as a continual reminder of the central message of Christianity, emphasizing the need for personal reflection, repentance, and gratitude for the redemptive work of Christ (Luke 22:19).

6. “Proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes”: This statement looks forward to the future return of Jesus. It serves as a hopeful anticipation that one day Christ will return, and believers are to celebrate the Lord’s Supper in anticipation of His second coming, demonstrating faith and perseverance in the face of trials and tribulations (1 Thessalonians 4:16-17). This passage emphasizes the foundational significance of the Lord’s Supper in the life of a Christian, reminding believers of the ultimate sacrifice of Jesus, the establishment of a new covenant, and the eternal hope found in His return. It underscores the importance of Communion as a sacred act of worship, remembrance, and proclamation of Christ’s redemptive work in human history.

1 Corinthians 11:27-32

1. Verse Breakdown:
2. 1 Corinthians 11:27-28: “So then, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. Everyone ought to examine themselves before they eat of the bread and drink from the cup.”
3. 1 Corinthians 11:29-30: “For those who eat and drink without discerning the body of Christ, eat and drink judgment on themselves. That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep.”

4. 1 Corinthians 11:31-32: “But if we were more discerning with regard to ourselves, we would not come under such judgment. Nevertheless, when we are judged in this way by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be finally condemned with the world.”

5. The apostle Paul addresses the Corinthians regarding the seriousness of partaking in the Lord’s Supper (communion) with reverence and self-examination in these verses. He warns that approaching this sacred meal in an unworthy manner, without proper respect or understanding, can lead to negative consequences. Paul highlights the deep significance of the communion elements symbolizing Christ’s sacrifice on the cross by mentioning eating and drinking in an unworthy manner as sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. It is crucial for believers to approach this ordinance with reverence and understanding of its spiritual implications.

6. The call for self-examination before partaking in communion emphasizes the need for introspection and repentance. This is to ensure that individuals do not participate in a way that dishonors Christ’s sacrifice or disregards the unity and significance of the body of believers.
7. The mention of becoming weak, sick, and even falling asleep (a euphemism for death) among the Corinthians due to their improper observance of the Lord’s Supper underscores the severity of failing to discern the body of Christ. This serves as a warning against neglecting the spiritual nature of communion.

8. Paul’s reference to being judged by the Lord contrasts eternal condemnation with temporary discipline. This shows that God’s correction is intended for the believers’ growth and ultimate salvation, reinforcing the importance of understanding and honoring the significance of the Lord’s Supper.

9. Relevance of Other Verses:

10. 1 Corinthians 10:16-17: These verses emphasize the unity of believers through partaking in the communion elements, representing their participation in the body of Christ. Understanding this unity is crucial in approaching the Lord’s Supper with reverence.
11. Matthew 26:26-29: The account of Jesus instituting the Lord’s Supper provides the foundational understanding of the elements of bread and wine representing His body and blood. This narrative informs the sacredness and significance of communion.
12. James 5:14-15: The concept of God’s discipline for the purpose of restoration is echoed in these verses, illustrating the biblical principle of how correction from the Lord is ultimately for the believers’ good. The verses in 1 Corinthians 11:27-32 remind believers of the importance of approaching the Lord’s Supper with reverence, self-examination, and discernment. Believers are called to honor the sacrifice of Christ, understand the unity of the body of believers, and heed God’s discipline for their spiritual growth and ultimate salvation by recognizing the gravity of partaking in communion unworthily.

1 Corinthians 11:33-34

Verse 33 of 1 Corinthians 11 reads: “So then, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.” This verse is part of Paul’s instructions to the Corinthians regarding the proper conduct during the Lord’s Supper, a communal meal meant to remember and honor Christ’s sacrifice. Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of unity and consideration among the believers. He is encouraging them to practice patience and selflessness by urging them to wait for one another, ensuring that everyone is included and no one is left out or overlooked. This is essential in maintaining the harmony and solidarity of the Christian community, reflecting the core values of love and fellowship that should define the body of Christ. Paul continues with the instruction in verse 34, saying, “If anyone is hungry, let him eat at home, so that when you come together it will not be for judgment.” About the other things I will give directions when I come.” Here, Paul addresses a specific issue among the Corinthians where some were selfishly indulging in the food without considering the needs of others, which was causing divisions and discord within the church. Paul is reminding those who are hungry to eat at home before coming to the communal meal to prioritize the spiritual significance of the gathering over their physical appetites. He warns that partaking in the Lord’s Supper with selfish motives can bring judgment upon oneself, highlighting the importance of humility, reverence, and sincerity in observing this sacred act of remembrance.

These verses in 1 Corinthians 11 serve as a reminder to Christians of the importance of unity, love, and selflessness in their interactions with one another, particularly in the context of communal worship and fellowship. The Lord’s Supper is a powerful symbol of Christ’s sacrificial love and a means of spiritual nourishment for believers. Christians can strengthen their bonds of fellowship and grow in their faith by approaching it with reverence, humility, and consideration for others. Paul’s teachings in these verses point to the timeless message of the Bible that emphasizes the significance of community, mutual care, and spiritual discernment in the life of the church. This echoes Jesus’ teachings on love and unity among believers, as seen in verses like John 13:34-35 where Jesus commands His followers to love one another as He has loved them, for this is how the world will know they are His disciples.

After 1 Corinthians 11

The apostle Paul instructs the Corinthians on the importance of maintaining order and reverence during worship in this chapter. He emphasizes the significance of head coverings for both men and women, highlighting the need for respect and propriety in the church gatherings. Paul also addresses the issue of the Lord’s Supper, reminding the believers of the sacredness of this practice and the need to partake in a worthy manner, discerning the body of Christ. Let us remember the call to honor God in all aspects of our lives, including our worship gatherings, as we reflect on the teachings of this chapter. Approach the Lord’s Supper with reverence and gratitude, recognizing the sacrifice of Christ on the cross for our sins. May we strive to maintain order and respect in our worship services, seeking to glorify God in everything we do. Paul delves deeper into the spiritual gifts bestowed upon believers by the Holy Spirit in the next chapter.