What does 1 Corinthians 11:2 mean?

Now I praise you, brethren, that ye remember me in all things, and keep the ordinances, as I delivered them to you. 1 Corinthians 11:2

Explanation

1 Corinthians 11:2 commends the Corinthians for remembering Paul’s teachings and for maintaining the traditions or ordinances as he passed them on. The term “ordinances” refers to the teachings, practices, and traditions that the early Christian community had been taught and were to uphold, which included doctrines, moral instructions, and patterns of worship. In this context, Paul is praising the church at Corinth for their faithfulness in this regard. This verse serves as a prelude to the subsequent discussion on proper conduct during worship, particularly regarding the Lord’s Supper and the roles of men and women in the church service.

Historical Context

The verse is set in the context of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. This letter was written in the mid-50s A.D. to the church in Corinth, a cosmopolitan city of the Roman Empire known for its diversity and moral laxity. The Christian community in Corinth was faced with a range of issues, from internal divisions to moral and theological controversies. Paul addressed these issues in his letter, providing instructions and corrections to help the church navigate their complex social and cultural environment.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives focus on the nature and authority of the traditions or ordinances mentioned by Paul. From a Protestant viewpoint, the emphasis might be on sola scriptura, the idea that scripture alone is the authoritative source for Christian doctrine and practice. Catholics and Orthodox Christians, on the other hand, may see this verse as supporting the authority of apostolic tradition, which includes the teachings of the apostles and their successors, in addition to Scripture. Both perspectives, however, recognize Paul’s authority as an apostle to instruct and correct the early church.

Practical Applications

This verse can be applied in daily life by Christians who seek to adhere to the teachings and practices of their faith as handed down through scripture and tradition. It encourages believers to remember and respect the foundational elements of their faith, maintain unity in doctrine and practice, and honor the contributions of those who have instructed them in the faith.

Cross-References

• 2 Thessalonians 2:15: “Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which ye have been taught, whether by word, or our epistle.”
• 2 Thessalonians 3:6: “Now we command you, brethren, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye withdraw yourselves from every brother that walketh disorderly, and not after the tradition which he received of us.”

Language Study

The key words in this verse in the original Greek are:

• “ordinances” (παραδόσεις, paradoseis): This term refers to what is handed over or passed down, which in the Christian context means the traditions or teachings passed on by the apostles.
• “delivered” (παρέδωκα, paredoka): This is a form of the verb “to deliver,” emphasizing the action of passing on or handing over these traditions.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader context of ancient religions and myths, traditions and rituals were central in maintaining the continuity of worship and belief systems. Just as Paul urges the Corinthians to keep the Christian traditions, many ancient cultures placed a strong emphasis on the accurate transmission of religious practices and stories from generation to generation.

Scientific Perspectives

While there is no direct correlation with scientific perspectives, the process of remembering and transmitting cultural and religious practices can be studied through the lens of anthropology and sociology. These disciplines examine how traditions are maintained, adapted, or transformed over time within societies.

commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have offered insights on this verse:

• Gordon D. Fee, in his commentary on 1 Corinthians, suggests that Paul’s affirmation of the Corinthians in following the traditions is quite striking, considering the numerous issues he addresses later in the letter. It may imply that despite their shortcomings, there is still commendable adherence to his teachings.

• Richard B. Hays, in his work “First Corinthians,” emphasizes that Paul sees the traditions as essential for preserving the integrity of the Christian community, especially in a diverse and morally challenging environment like Corinth.

• John Calvin comments that by commending the Corinthians for upholding the ordinances, Paul is setting a foundation for the rebukes that will follow; it’s like he’s affirming the good before correcting the bad.