What does 1 Corinthians 11:19 mean?

Explanation

1 Corinthians 11:19 speaks to the reality of divisions and incorrect doctrines within the Christian community and the purpose they serve.

On the surface, the verse seems to indicate that heresies are a necessary part of the church life.

The idea is not that heresies are good or desired, but rather that their presence serves a providential purpose.

When heresies arise, they test the faith and the understanding of believers.

It’s during such times of testing and controversy that the true character and beliefs of Christians are revealed.

Those who are "approved," which means those whose faith is genuine and whose understanding is correct, will be made evident.

Historical Context

The Corinthian church, to whom the Apostle Paul is writing, was experiencing various problems, including divisions, immorality, and misunderstandings about Christian doctrine and practice.

This verse is part of Paul's broader discussion on the issue of eating meals in the context of worship, which included the observance of the Lord's Supper. It appears in a passage where Paul is addressing the disorderly and divisive practices that were occurring during these communal meals.

Theological Insights

There are various theological viewpoints on this verse.

One perspective is the argument that God uses heresies to test believers, refining the church and ensuring that truth ultimately triumphs.

The idea of being "approved" may also be seen in light of eschatological judgment, where true faith endures till the end.

Alternatively, others suggest that heresies are a result of human failings and free will, but God, in His sovereignty, can utilize such failings for His purpose of distinguishing true believers.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of discernment and faithfulness to apostolic teaching.

In a practical sense, believers are encouraged to study Scripture diligently, to hold firm to sound doctrine, and to live out their faith in a manner consistent with Christian teachings.

As heresies and false teachings arise, individuals have the opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to the truth.

Cross-References

• 2 Peter 2:1 - "But there were false prophets also among the people, even as there shall be false teachers among you, who privily shall bring in damnable heresies, even denying the Lord that bought them, and bring upon themselves swift destruction."
• 1 John 4:1 - "Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
• 2 Timothy 2:15 - "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."

Language Study

The key phrase in the original Greek is δεῖ γὰρ καὶ αἱρέσεις (dei gar kai hairesis), which can be translated as "there must be also heresies." "Must be" (δεῖ / dei) conveys a sense of divine necessity or inevitability.

"Heresies" (αἱρέσεις / hairesis) originally meant a choice or faction, but in the New Testament, it comes to denote divisions based on false teaching.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient religious and philosophical schools, the emergence of different factions or sects (hairesis) was not uncommon.

The development of various schools of thought was seen as part of the process of exploring and advancing knowledge.

In this Biblical context, the heresies are not seen as a positive pluralism but as a divergence from the truth that necessitates correction.

Scientific Perspectives

The scientific community generally does not address heresies from a religious standpoint, since science is based on empirical evidence and the pursuit of understanding through observation and experimentation.

However, the concept of being "approved" can find a parallel in the scientific method, where hypotheses are constantly tested and evaluated to determine their validity.

commentaries

Scholarly commentaries on this verse offer several interpretations.

Some focus on the permissive will of God, suggesting that God allows heresies as a way to test faith. Others highlight the role of heresies in demonstrating the contrast between true and false teaching.

It is also noted that this verse underscores the responsibility of the church to address false teachings and maintain unity in the faith, acknowledging that faith is a marker of authenticity in a believer's life.

Commentators often warn against the dangers of complacency and encourage proactive engagement with the Bible to resist false doctrines.