What does 1 Corinthians 11:17 mean?

Now in this that I declare unto you I praise you not, that ye come together not for the better, but for the worse. 1 Corinthians 11:17

Explanation

This verse from 1 Corinthians 11:17 expresses a critique from the Apostle Paul regarding the behavior of the Corinthians during their gatherings. Paul states that he cannot praise them because their meetings do more harm than good. The statement implies that the Corinthians’ gatherings, which were likely intended for worship and edification, are instead resulting in division and other negative outcomes. The verse is a lead-in to a discussion about the problems occurring during the communal meals, or the “Lord’s Supper,” where some members of the community were engaging in practices that went against the intended purpose of unity and remembrance of Jesus Christ.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians was written by Paul to the Christian church in Corinth, a city known for its wealth, diversity, and moral laxity. The letter dates from around 54-55 A.D. The church in Corinth was experiencing various issues, including factionalism, moral compromise, and misunderstandings about spiritual gifts. Paul’s statement in 1 Corinthians 11:17 reflects the disorders related to their communal meals, where wealthier members were excluding the poor, leading to divisions and humiliation among the congregants.

Theological Insights

Different theological viewpoints offer various insights into this verse. From a traditional Protestant perspective, this verse underscores the importance of self-examination and the attitude of the heart during worship and sacraments. It insists on a communal, egalitarian approach to worship where no one is excluded or belittled. A Catholic interpretation may emphasize the sacrality of the Eucharist and the need for reverent behavior, unity, and charity within the church community, especially during the Mass. Pentecostal and charismatic traditions might focus on the need for the Spirit to guide the community’s actions to bring them closer together and to God.

Practical Applications

This verse prompts individuals to reflect on their behavior during communal religious activities and the motivations behind their participation in such gatherings. It suggests that believers should strive for unity, love, and respect towards one another when coming together for worship, avoiding actions that may cause division or dishonor the purpose of the gathering. It also encourages church leaders to facilitate inclusive communities that value every member’s contribution and well-being.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 11:20-22: “When ye come together therefore into one place, [this] is not to eat the Lord’s supper. For in eating every one taketh before [other] his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken. What? have ye not houses to eat and to drink in? or despise ye the church of God, and shame them that have not?”
• 1 Corinthians 1:10: “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and [that] there be no divisions among you; but [that] ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”

Language Study

The Greek word for “declare” (παραγγέλλω, parangellō) in this verse carries the nuance of a strong command or instruction, showing Paul’s authoritative tone in addressing the issues. The phrases “come together” (συνέρχομαι, sunerchomai) and “for the worse” (εἰς τὸ ἧσσον, eis to hesson) are of particular interest. “Come together” refers to the collective gathering of the church, while “for the worse” suggests a deterioration or decline in their community life. Paul’s use of language here underscores the seriousness of the Corinthians’ failure to maintain church unity and purity during their assemblies.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The early Christian communal meals can be compared to other religious and cultural fellowship practices. For example, the Jewish tradition had a shared meal during the Passover, which was a time of remembrance and community. In the Greco-Roman world, symposia (social banquets) were common, but they often reinforced social stratification which Paul criticizes. This suggests that the Christian communal meal was intended to be countercultural, promoting an egalitarian fellowship as opposed to the class-divided practices of the surrounding society.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific viewpoint, group behaviors and social dynamics play a significant role in the well-being and cohesion of a community. Modern psychological studies support the idea that exclusionary practices and internal divisions can be detrimental to group integrity and individual well-being. Paul’s criticisms could be seen as an early recognition of the social problems that arise when group practices are not inclusive or are harmful to certain members.

Commentaries

Commentators through the centuries have explored the implications of 1 Corinthians 11:17. John Calvin remarks on the necessity of purity and unity in church gatherings, considering such assemblies sacred. Matthew Henry focuses on the issue of disorderly conduct and the divisiveness that negatively impacts the worship experience. More contemporary scholars discuss the first-century church’s socio-economic context and how Paul sought to address the issues of class and divisions to uphold the principles of the Christian faith and maintain the integrity of church communities.