What does 1 Corinthians 11:26 mean?

Explanation

1 Corinthians 11:26 is a verse that is central to the Christian practice of communion, also known as the Lord's Supper or Eucharist.

In this passage, the Apostle Paul is explaining to the Corinthian church the significance of the bread and wine they partake during communion.

He points out that these elements symbolize the body and blood of Jesus Christ, which were sacrificed on the cross, thus, the bread represents Jesus’ body, and the cup represents his blood.

Paul emphasizes that by participating in this ritual, believers are proclaiming Jesus' death and the salvation it brings.

The phrase "till he come" suggests that this practice is to continue until the second coming of Christ, serving as a reminder of His anticipated return.

Historical Context

The book of 1 Corinthians is a letter written by Paul to the church in Corinth, which he had founded during one of his missionary journeys.

The Corinthian church was a diverse community in a cosmopolitan city with many cultural influences, including Greek philosophy and pagan idolatry.

Communion, a practice instituted by Jesus during the Last Supper, had become a core Christian observance by Paul's time.

However, the Corinthians had misunderstandings and misconduct related to the Lord’s Supper, which Paul addresses throughout 1 Corinthians 11.

Theological Insights

Different Christian traditions have differing theological perspectives on this verse.

Protestant traditions typically view the elements of communion as symbolic, asserting that the bread and wine symbolize the body and blood of Christ.

Catholic and Orthodox Christianity hold to transubstantiation and real presence, respectively, both teaching that the bread and wine become in some sense the actual body and blood of Christ.

The theological insight common among these perspectives is that this is a sacred memory that affirms the significance of Christ's sacrificial death for humanity's salvation.

Practical Applications

This verse serves as a directive for Christian practice.

Practically, it calls for regular reflection on Christ's sacrifice.

It guides believers to approach communion with reverence, as it's an opportunity to remember and proclaim the heart of the Gospel.

It also encourages anticipation of Christ's return, nurturing a sense of hope and purpose in the life of a believer.

Cross-References

• Luke 22:19-20: "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me.

Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you."

• Matthew 26:26-28: "And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins."

Language Study

The key words within the original Greek text of this verse are:

• "Body" (σῶμα, sôma): Referring to Christ's physical body.
• "Cup" (ποτήριον, potērion): A drinking vessel, metaphorically representing Christ's blood.
• "Proclaim" (καταγγέλλετε, katangellēte): To announce, declare, make known.
• "Death" (θάνατον, thanaton): The physical death, but also alluding to the saving significance of that death.
• "Till He come" (ἄχρις ἔλθῃ, achris elthēi): Signifying waiting for or until the return of Christ.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

The Christian practice of communion has parallels in various ancient near-eastern rituals where meals would seal covenants or be part of sacrificial systems.

Elements such as bread and wine were common in various religious ceremonies, but in Christianity, they are given specific redemptive meaning based on the narrative of Jesus's life, death, and resurrection.

Scientific Perspectives

Science does not directly inform or intersect with the practice of communion as it is a religious ceremonial act.

However, science does consider the psychological and sociological effects of ritualistic practices, often underscoring their role in creating a sense of community, belonging, and emotional well-being among participants.

commentaries

Commentaries vary in their emphasis when discussing 1 Corinthians 11:26.

Some focus on the remembrance aspect, highlighting the importance of recollecting Christ's sacrifice with gratitude and humility. Others delve into the eschatological (pertaining to the end times) implications, reminding readers that communion looks forward to the return of Christ.

Additionally, some commentaries discuss the ecclesiastical (church-related) implications, emphasizing proper conduct and discernment among believers when observing the Lord's Supper.