1 Corinthians 11
BSB1 You are to imitate me, just as I imitate Christ. 2 Now I commend you for remembering me in everything and for maintaining the traditions, just as I passed them on to you. 3 But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God. 4 Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. 5 And every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is just as if her head were shaved. 6 If a woman does not cover her head, she should have her hair cut off. And if it is shameful for a woman to have her hair cut or shaved off, she should cover her head. 7 A man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God; but the woman is the glory of man. 8 For man did not come from woman, but woman from man. 9 Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man. 10 For this reason a woman ought to have a sign of authority on her head, because of the angels. 11 In the Lord, however, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman. 12 For just as woman came from man, so also man is born of woman. But everything comes from God. 13 Judge for yourselves: Is it proper for a woman to pray to God with her head uncovered? 14 Doesn’t nature itself teach you that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, 15 but that if a woman has long hair, it is her glory? For long hair is given to her as a covering. 16 If anyone is inclined to dispute this, we have no other practice, nor do the churches of God. 17 In the following instructions I have no praise to offer, because your gatherings do more harm than good. 18 First of all, I hear that when you come together as a church, there are divisions among you, and in part I believe it. 19 And indeed, there must be differences among you to show which of you are approved. 20 Now then, when you come together, it is not the Lord’s Supper you eat. 21 For as you eat, each of you goes ahead without sharing his meal. While one remains hungry, another gets drunk. 22 Don’t you have your own homes in which to eat and drink? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What can I say to you? Shall I praise you for this? No, I will not! 23 For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night He was betrayed, took bread, 24 and when He had given thanks, He broke it and said, “This is My body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of Me." 25 In the same way, after supper He took the cup, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood; do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of Me." 26 For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes. 27 Therefore, whoever eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty of sinning against the body and blood of the Lord. 28 Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup. 29 For anyone who eats and drinks without recognizing the body eats and drinks judgment on himself. 30 That is why many among you are weak and sick, and a number of you have fallen asleep. 31 Now if we judged ourselves properly, we would not come under judgment. 32 But when we are judged by the Lord, we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world. 33 So, my brothers, when you come together to eat, wait for one another. 34 If anyone is hungry, he should eat at home, so that when you come together it will not result in judgment. And when I come, I will give instructions about the remaining matters.
Study Notes — 1 Corinthians 11
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Corinthians 11
- Themes from 1 Corinthians 11
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Corinthians 11
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In 1 Corinthians 11, the Apostle Paul addresses two main issues: the proper attire and conduct of women in worship, and the correct observance of the Lord's Supper. He begins by commending the Corinthians for maintaining the traditions he had passed on to them, but then corrects their misunderstandings regarding headship and the roles of men and women in prayer and prophecy. Paul also rebukes the Corinthians for their divisive and disorderly behavior when gathering for the Lord's Supper, instructing them to examine themselves and to partake of the bread and cup in a worthy manner, remembering the death of Christ and anticipating His return. Key verses include 1 Corinthians 11:3, which establishes the principle of headship, and 1 Corinthians 11:24-25, which recounts the institution of the Lord's Supper.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, a church he founded during his second missionary journey. The letter addresses various issues and questions that had arisen in the church, including divisions, immorality, and confusion over spiritual gifts. The context of 1 Corinthians 11 is crucial for understanding the Apostolic teachings on worship, headship, and the sacraments, and how these relate to the overall theme of maintaining unity and purity within the body of Christ.
Heart Application
This chapter calls believers to examine their hearts and actions, ensuring that their worship and conduct are honoring to God. It emphasizes the importance of humility, respect, and unity, reminding us that our corporate worship is a reflection of our love for Christ and our commitment to one another. As we apply these principles, we should strive to create an environment where everyone can worship freely and without distraction, focusing on the glory of God and the edification of the body.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter of 1 Corinthians talks about how men and women should behave in church, especially when they pray or prophesy. It also explains how to correctly observe the Lord's Supper, remembering Jesus' death and looking forward to His return. The main point is to do everything in a way that honors God and shows respect for one another, as seen in 1 Corinthians 11:3 and 1 Corinthians 11:24-25.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord's Supper is a feast of love, and it should be observed with the deepest reverence and the most sincere affection. As we partake of the bread and cup, let us remember the sacrifice of Christ and the unity of the body.”
— Charles Spurgeon
“The headship of Christ is not merely a doctrine, but a living reality that should shape our worship and our relationships. Let us submit to His authority and reflect His character in all that we do.”
— John Calvin
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to the Chapter (1 Corinthians 11:1-2) — Paul commends the Corinthians for maintaining the traditions he passed on to them, setting the stage for his corrections and teachings in the chapter.
- Headship and Worship (1 Corinthians 11:3-16) — Paul establishes the principle of headship, explaining the roles of men and women in prayer and prophecy, and emphasizing the importance of proper attire and conduct in worship.
- The Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34) — Paul corrects the Corinthians for their abuse of the Lord's Supper, instructing them on the proper way to observe it, and recounting the institution of the sacrament by Christ.
- Conclusion and Final Instructions (1 Corinthians 11:33-34) — Paul concludes the chapter by calling the Corinthians to wait for one another when gathering for the Lord's Supper, ensuring that all are edified and that the assembly is conducted in a decent and orderly manner.
- Overall Application — The teachings of this chapter are crucial for the life of the church, emphasizing reverence, respect, and unity in worship, and providing guidance on the proper observance of the Lord's Supper.
Core Doctrines
- Headship
- This chapter teaches that headship is a principle established by God, with Christ as the head of every man, the husband as the head of the wife, and God as the head of Christ. This hierarchy of authority is essential for maintaining order and harmony in the church and in the family.
- The Lord's Supper
- The institution of the Lord's Supper is a sacrament that commemorates the death of Christ and looks forward to His return. It is to be observed with reverence and in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice for the forgiveness of sins.
- Unity of the Church
- The chapter emphasizes the importance of unity and harmony within the body of Christ, calling believers to put aside divisions and personal interests for the sake of Christ and the edification of the church.
- Respect and Reverence in Worship
- The teachings of this chapter underscore the need for respect and reverence in worship, whether in the observance of the Lord's Supper or in the attire and conduct of men and women. This reflects the seriousness of worship and the importance of maintaining a holy and orderly assembly.
Lessons from 1 Corinthians 11
- The Importance of Headship — This chapter teaches us about the hierarchy of authority established by God, emphasizing the submission and respect that should characterize our relationships and worship.
- The Significance of the Lord's Supper — The institution of the Lord's Supper is a powerful reminder of Christ's death and our unity as believers, calling us to observe it with reverence and in remembrance of His sacrifice.
- Unity in Worship — The chapter emphasizes the need for unity and harmony in our church gatherings, encouraging us to put aside divisions and personal interests for the sake of Christ and the edification of the church.
- Respect and Reverence — The teachings of this chapter underscore the importance of respect and reverence in worship, whether in the observance of the Lord's Supper or in the attire and conduct of men and women.
- Application to Daily Life — The principles taught in this chapter have practical applications for our daily lives, calling us to live in a manner that honors God and respects one another, reflecting the unity and harmony of the body of Christ.
Themes from 1 Corinthians 11
- Headship and Authority — The chapter explores the concept of headship, establishing a hierarchy of authority that reflects the relationship between God, Christ, husbands, and wives.
- Worship and Reverence — The teachings of this chapter emphasize the importance of reverence and respect in worship, whether in the observance of the Lord's Supper or in the attire and conduct of men and women.
- Unity and Harmony — The chapter calls believers to unity and harmony, putting aside divisions and personal interests for the sake of Christ and the edification of the church.
- The Lord's Supper — The institution of the Lord's Supper is a central theme, commemorating Christ's death and looking forward to His return, and calling believers to observe it with reverence and in remembrance of His sacrifice.
- Application and Practice — The chapter provides practical guidance on how to apply its teachings to daily life and worship, ensuring that believers live in a manner that honors God and respects one another.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the concept of headship mean for our relationships and worship, according to 1 Corinthians 11:3?
- How should we observe the Lord's Supper, and what is its significance for believers, as taught in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26?
- In what ways can we promote unity and harmony in our church gatherings, reflecting the principles of 1 Corinthians 11?
- What are some practical ways to apply the teachings of this chapter to our daily lives and worship, ensuring that we honor God and respect one another?
- How does the institution of the Lord's Supper, as recounted in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, remind us of Christ's sacrifice and our unity as believers?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction and Commendation (1 Corinthians 11:1-2)
| 11:1 | Paul commends the Corinthians for maintaining the traditions he passed on to them, setting the stage for his corrections and teachings in the chapter. |
| 11:2 | He expresses his desire for them to continue in the traditions, emphasizing the importance of proper doctrine and practice. |
2. Headship and Worship (1 Corinthians 11:3-16)
| 11:3 | Paul establishes the principle of headship, explaining the roles of men and women in prayer and prophecy, and emphasizing the importance of proper attire and conduct in worship. |
| 11:4-5 | He addresses the conduct of men and women in prayer and prophecy, emphasizing the importance of humility and respect. |
| 11:6 | Paul teaches that if a woman does not cover her head, she should have her hair cut off, underscoring the importance of modesty and humility in worship. |
| 11:7-9 | He explains that man is the image and glory of God, while woman is the glory of man, establishing a hierarchy of authority and responsibility. |
| 11:10 | Paul teaches that woman should have a symbol of authority on her head, because of the angels, emphasizing the importance of reverence and respect in worship. |
| 11:11-12 | He reminds the Corinthians that in the Lord, woman is not independent of man, nor is man independent of woman, highlighting the interdependence of men and women in the body of Christ. |
| 11:13-15 | Paul argues that nature itself teaches that if a man has long hair, it is a disgrace to him, while if a woman has long hair, it is her glory, emphasizing the importance of modesty and humility in worship. |
| 11:16 | He concludes that if anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice, nor do the churches of God, underscoring the importance of unity and harmony in the body of Christ. |
3. The Lord's Supper (1 Corinthians 11:17-34)
| 11:17 | Paul rebukes the Corinthians for their abuse of the Lord's Supper, instructing them on the proper way to observe it. |
| 11:18-19 | He expresses his disappointment that there are divisions among them when they gather, and that some are hungry while others are drunk, highlighting the need for unity and respect in worship. |
| 11:20 | Paul teaches that when they come together, it is not to eat the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the importance of reverence and respect in worship. |
| 11:21-22 | He rebukes them for their selfish and disorderly behavior, emphasizing the need for humility and respect in worship. |
| 11:23-26 | Paul recounts the institution of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the significance of Christ's death and the unity of believers. |
| 11:27-32 | He instructs the Corinthians to examine themselves before partaking of the Lord's Supper, emphasizing the importance of reverence and respect in worship. |
| 11:33-34 | Paul concludes by calling the Corinthians to wait for one another when gathering for the Lord's Supper, ensuring that all are edified and that the assembly is conducted in a decent and orderly manner. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of headship in 1 Corinthians 11?
Headship refers to the hierarchy of authority established by God, with Christ as the head of every man, the husband as the head of the wife, and God as the head of Christ. This principle is essential for maintaining order and harmony in the church and in the family, as taught in 1 Corinthians 11:3.
How should we observe the Lord's Supper?
The Lord's Supper should be observed with reverence and in remembrance of Christ's sacrifice, as taught in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26. Believers should examine themselves before partaking, ensuring that they are in a right relationship with God and with one another.
What is the importance of unity in worship?
Unity in worship is essential for the edification of the church and the glory of God. Believers should strive to create an environment where everyone can worship freely and without distraction, focusing on the glory of God and the edification of the body, as taught in 1 Corinthians 11:33-34.
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Corinthians 11:3 → Ephesians 5:23 | The headship of Christ over every man is also taught in Ephesians 5:23, which emphasizes the submission of the church to Christ. |
| 2 | 1 Corinthians 11:8-9 → Genesis 2:18-24 | The creation account in Genesis 2:18-24 provides the background for Paul's teaching on the relationship between men and women, emphasizing the interdependence of the sexes. |
| 3 | 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 → Luke 22:19-20 | The institution of the Lord's Supper is also recorded in Luke 22:19-20, which emphasizes the significance of Christ's death and the unity of believers. |
| 4 | 1 Corinthians 11:27 → Matthew 26:26-28 | The warning against partaking of the Lord's Supper in an unworthy manner is also taught in Matthew 26:26-28, which emphasizes the importance of reverence and respect in worship. |
| 5 | 1 Corinthians 11:3 → 1 Timothy 2:12-13 | The principle of headship is also taught in 1 Timothy 2:12-13, which emphasizes the submission of women to men in the church. |
| 6 | 1 Corinthians 11:24-25 → John 6:53-58 | The significance of the Lord's Supper is also taught in John 6:53-58, which emphasizes the importance of partaking of Christ's body and blood for eternal life. |
| 7 | 1 Corinthians 11:10 → 1 Peter 3:3-4 | The importance of modesty and humility in worship is also taught in 1 Peter 3:3-4, which emphasizes the adornment of the inner self. |
| 8 | 1 Corinthians 11:26 → Revelation 19:6-10 | The anticipation of Christ's return is also taught in Revelation 19:6-10, which emphasizes the glory of God and the unity of believers. |
| 9 | 1 Corinthians 11:3 → Colossians 1:18 | The headship of Christ over every man is also taught in Colossians 1:18, which emphasizes the preeminence of Christ in all things. |
| 10 | 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 → Hebrews 13:15 | The institution of the Lord's Supper is also alluded to in Hebrews 13:15, which emphasizes the importance of offering sacrifices of praise to God. |
Sermons on 1 Corinthians 11
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Biblical Manhood) -Morning Brunch by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being a godly example to our children. He shares his desire for his son to see him on his knees, weeping with joy about Jes |
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Destroying Pop-Christian Views of Marital Bliss - Part 1 by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of a man loving his wife as God loves her. He highlights how many great preachers and missionaries often neglect their wives, |
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(1 Peter - Part 31): Christian's Trial and His Committal by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holding onto correct doctrine and teaching the truth as it is. He encourages believers to build themselves up in their fait |
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(Sermon Preparation) Lecture 01 by Alan Redpath | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering that the gospel of Christ is primarily addressed to individuals and its ultimate goal is the salvation of mult |
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Think Hard, Stay Humble: The Life of the Mind and the Peril of Pride by Francis Chan | In this sermon, the speaker addresses the audience's awareness of the suffering and struggles faced by their brothers and sisters around the world. He emphasizes the importance of |
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(How to Get Out of a Religious Rut): It's Imperative to Get Out of the Rut Now! by A.W. Tozer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being wholehearted Christians and not settling for a half-hearted faith. He urges the congregation to take their faith ser |
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"Ye Shall Be as gods." That Was Not Christ’s Ambition by Hans R. Waldvogel | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of humbling oneself before God. They share a story about a woman who found joy in doing the dishes because she saw it as an op |
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Satan's Final War Plan Exposed by David Wilkerson | This sermon emphasizes the importance of spiritual warfare and the need for believers to be vigilant against the devil's schemes. It highlights the strategy of the enemy to target |
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The Life of Brokenness by William MacDonald | In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the concept of brokenness and its significance in the Christian faith. He references various biblical stories to illustrate the power of brok |
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Are You Destroying the Church by Francis Chan | Francis Chan emphasizes the critical importance of unity within the church, warning against the destructive nature of division and gossip. He reflects on biblical examples of God's |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Corinthians 11
In this chapter, the Apostle Paul corrects the Corinthians for their misunderstandings regarding headship and the roles of men and women in worship. He establishes the principle of headship, explaining that Christ is the head of every man, the husband is the head of the wife, and God is the head of Christ. Paul also addresses the abuse of the Lord's Supper, instructing the Corinthians on the proper way to observe it, and recounting the institution of the sacrament by Christ. The chapter emphasizes the importance of reverence, respect, and unity in worship, calling believers to examine themselves and to partake of the bread and cup in a worthy manner. As Matthew Henry notes, the Lord's Supper is a feast of love, and it should be observed with the deepest reverence and the most sincere affection, reflecting the unity and harmony of the body of Christ. Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
Pattern of Correction
Paul corrects the Corinthians for their misunderstandings and misbehaviors, demonstrating the importance of proper doctrine and practice in the church. This pattern is evident in his address of headship and the Lord's Supper.
Emphasis on Reverence
The chapter emphasizes the need for reverence and respect in worship, whether in the observance of the Lord's Supper or in the attire and conduct of men and women. This underscores the seriousness of worship and the importance of maintaining a holy and orderly assembly.
Unity in Diversity
Despite the diversity of roles and responsibilities within the church, there is a strong emphasis on unity and harmony. Believers are called to come together in a spirit of love and respect, putting aside divisions and personal interests for the sake of Christ.