What does 1 Corinthians 11:21 mean?

Explanation

1 Corinthians 11:21 portrays an issue within the early Christian community of Corinth during their communal meals, known as the Agape feast or love feasts. These meals were a time for fellowship and sharing, and they generally culminated with the Lord's Supper or Communion.

However, the practice was being abused by some within the community.

Instead of waiting for one another and eating together as a sign of unity and equality, individuals acted selfishly, some ate their meals ahead of others, and while some were left hungry, others became drunk.

This indicates a division and lack of consideration amongst the members of the church.

Historical Context

The historical context of 1 Corinthians 11:21 is the first-century Christian church in Corinth, a diverse city known for its wealth and immorality.

The church itself was composed of both Jewish and Gentile converts, and social divisions based on socio-economic status were prevalent.

Communal meals were common practice in the Greco-Roman world, and the early Christians adopted this custom, giving it a new significance in the context of Christian fellowship and worship.

Theological Insights

From a theological standpoint, this verse offers insight into the Christian understanding of unity and communal responsibility.

The Apostle Paul, who authored 1 Corinthians, is urging the church to reflect the self-giving love of Christ in their gatherings.

In the wider context of 1 Corinthians 11, Paul is instructing the community on proper behavior during worship, particularly regarding the Lord's Supper.

Theologically, this reinforces the idea that Christian practice is not just a ritual but must emanate from a heart of love and consideration for others.

Practical Applications

The teachings of this verse can be applied to modern Christian life primarily in the area of fellowship and community.

The idea is to approach communal activities with humility and patience, ensuring no one is marginalized or deprived.

This has applications in church gatherings, potlucks, and even broader social activism, where addressing the needs of the less fortunate becomes a collective concern.

Cross-References

• Galatians 6:2 - "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
• Romans 12:13 - "Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality."
• Jude 1:12 - "These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear..."

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of 1 Corinthians 11:21 include:

• "Proslambanetai" (προσλαμβάνεται): Typically translated as "taketh before" (KJV) or "goes ahead" (NIV), indicating an action of self-prioritization over communal consideration.
• "Ho heis" (ὁ ἕν) and "ho heteros" (ὁ ἕτερος): These phrases translate to “one” and “another,” highlighting the individual actions within the community.
• "Peina" (πεινᾷ): Translated as "is hungry," implying a state of need or deprivation.
• "Methuei" (μεθύει): Translated as "is drunken," indicating intoxication, which in this context is a sign of excess and immoderation.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparing this verse to other ancient cultural and religious practices, it is evident that communal meals often had significant religious connotations, such as in the Greco-Roman symposiums.

However, Christian Agape feasts introduced a distinct focus on equity and shared fellowship. This stood in contrast to some societal norms that encouraged status-based hierarchies at such gatherings.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, the concept of overconsumption leading to negative outcomes like drunkenness aligns with modern understandings of health and human biology.

Social science would examine the dynamics of inequality and its psychological and societal effects, potentially supporting the verse's implicit advocacy for fairness and mutual care.

Commentaries

Various Bible scholars and theologians have commented on this verse, often focusing on its moral and ethical implications.

Many commentaries highlight Paul's rebuke as an effort to cultivate a sense of unity in the church amidst diversity.

They note how Paul's correction aimed to bring the Corinthians back to the core values of Christian fellowship and the Eucharist, with some scholars emphasizing how these principles are timeless and continue to be relevant to the church today.