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1 Corinthians 11

34 verses

TL;DR

Paul instructs on head coverings, condemns church divisions, and emphasizes proper conduct at the Lord's Supper.

Summary

Paul begins by urging believers to follow his example of following Christ, praising those who remember him and observe his ordinances. He then addresses the practice of head coverings, declaring the head of man as Christ, and the head of woman as man, insisting that women cover their heads while men remain uncovered, linking this to divine order and angelic respect. Following this, he criticizes divisions within the church, highlighting heretical teachings and improper gathering for the Lord's Supper, where each individual eats separately, causing hunger and drunkenness. Paul recounts the institution of the Supper, instructing believers to partake with self-examination and discernment, warning that those who eat unworthily will be guilty of Christ's body and blood. He calls for unity, urging members to wait on one another, and suggests that those hungry should eat at home to avoid condemnation, promising that he will restore order upon his return.

Outline
  1. Head covering instructions and the concept of headship
  2. Critique of church divisions and improper fellowship
  3. Rules for the Lord's Supper and call for self-examination
Themes
Headship and authority within the churchOrder, unity, and proper conduct in worshipSelf‑examination and holiness in participation
Keywords
headcoveringprayerprophecydivisionsupperbreadcupself‑examinationcondemnationunworthy
People
PaulChristJesusAngelsThe LordMembers of the churches
Places
Things
Head coveringLong hairBread (body of Christ)Cup (blood of Christ)Lord's SupperNew testament
Key Verses
  • 1 Corinthians 11:1: Paul sets the example of following Christ, establishing the authority he will later discuss.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:3: Core statement of headship that underpins the head‑covering instruction.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:13: Paul invites self‑judgment regarding head coverings, revealing the practical application of the principle.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:28: Highlights the seriousness of eating unworthily and its consequences.
  • 1 Corinthians 11:34: Summarizes the call to unity and order in the Lord’s Supper, a key pastoral concern.
Questions
  • What does Paul mean by the headship of man over woman, and how does this relate to church order?
  • How should a church handle divisions and heretical teachings while maintaining unity?
  • Why is self‑examination emphasized for participation in the Lord’s Supper?
Sentiment

mixed
The chapter contains commendation and praise, but also strong admonition, correction, and warnings.