1 Corinthians 11:20 WEB

"When therefore you assemble yourselves together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat."

What Does 1 Corinthians 11:20 Mean?

In 1 Corinthians 11:20, the Apostle Paul emphasizes a critical point about the nature of the gatherings of the Corinthian church. He states, "When therefore you assemble yourselves together, it is not the Lord’s supper that you eat." This verse serves as a reprimand against the way the Corinthians were observing the Lord's Supper, where their communal meal had deviated from its intended spiritual significance. Paul is highlighting that their actions and attitudes during this sacred observance were not aligned with the purpose established by Jesus. Instead of a unified celebration of Christ's sacrifice, their gatherings had become a source of division and selfishness.

Key phrases in this verse, such as "assemble yourselves together" and "the Lord’s supper," hold significant weight. The phrase "assemble yourselves together" illustrates the importance of community and fellowship among believers. Paul urges the Corinthians to recognize that their collective worship should reflect their unity in Christ. The term "the Lord’s supper" refers to the practice of commemorating Jesus' last meal with His disciples, symbolizing His sacrifice and the new covenant. The Corinthians' failure to honor this practice properly suggests a misunderstanding of its significance as a sacred act.

To understand this verse within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, it's essential to recognize the issues facing the Corinthian church. Paul wrote this letter to address various problems, including divisions, immorality, and misunderstandings about spiritual gifts and worship. Chapter 11 specifically discusses the proper conduct during worship, highlighting the importance of respect and reverence for the Lord's Supper. Paul is not merely critiquing their behavior; he is providing a corrective lens through which they can view their communal practices, urging them to return to the heart of the gospel.

Common misconceptions about this verse may arise from interpreting it as a simple criticism of the Corinthian church's practices. However, it serves a deeper purpose: to call the church back to its roots in Christ. The Lord’s Supper is not merely a ritual; it embodies the core of Christian faith—unity, love, and remembrance of Jesus’ sacrifice. Therefore, Paul’s admonition is not just about correcting behavior but also about restoring the essence of worship in the community of believers.

Practical Application

In modern Christian life, 1 Corinthians 11:20 invites us to reflect on the significance of our gatherings as a church community. When we come together for worship, communion, or any church activity, we should examine our attitudes and actions to ensure they reflect the love and unity of Christ. For example, if church members socialize in ways that exclude others or prioritize personal preferences over communal worship, they risk undermining the purpose of their gatherings. This verse reminds us that our interactions during church should foster an environment of acceptance and spiritual nourishment.

Consider a situation where a church holds a potluck dinner as part of their fellowship night. If certain members dominate the conversation or ignore newcomers, the gathering may lose its intended purpose of building community. Paul’s message in this verse encourages us to be mindful of our actions and to treat all members with respect and love, ensuring that every gathering truly reflects the Lord’s supper—a celebration of unity in Christ.

To put this teaching into practice, here are some actionable steps: First, approach every church gathering with a heart of service, looking to uplift others and engage with them genuinely. Second, participate actively in discussions about how to improve church practices to reflect Christ’s intentions—consider forming committees or small groups focused on inclusion and community-building. Lastly, take time for personal reflection on how your actions contribute to the church’s unity and mission.

As you contemplate these ideas, here are a few reflection questions to consider: How do I view church gatherings? Am I contributing to a spirit of unity and love within my church? What steps can I take to ensure that my participation reflects the true meaning of the Lord's Supper?

Historical Context

The letter to the Corinthians addresses various issues facing the church, including divisions and misunderstandings about worship. In Chapter 11, Paul discusses proper conduct during communal meals, stressing the importance of respect for the Lord's Supper. His admonition serves to restore the true meaning of worship, which should embody unity and reverence for Christ's sacrifice.

Historical Background

The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians around A.D. 55 to address various challenges in the Corinthian church. This letter serves as a corrective guide, focusing on issues of morality, unity, and worship practices within a culturally diverse church rich in both spiritual gifts and societal challenges.

Reflection Questions

Common Questions

What does 'Lord's supper' mean?

The 'Lord's Supper' refers to the Christian practice of commemorating Jesus' last meal with His disciples, also known as Communion. It symbolizes the sacrifice of Jesus, where bread represents His body, and the cup represents His blood. This sacred meal is meant to foster unity among believers and remembrance of Christ's love and sacrifice.

Why did Paul address the Corinthian church about their gatherings?

Paul addressed the Corinthian church regarding their gatherings because they were misusing the Lord's Supper, leading to divisions and selfish behaviors. By emphasizing proper conduct, he aimed to restore the meaning of communal worship to reflect unity, love, and reverence for Christ's sacrifice.

How can we ensure our church gatherings honor God?

To honor God in church gatherings, it is essential to foster an atmosphere of love and inclusivity. This can be achieved by encouraging participation, respecting all members, and focusing on the shared purpose of worshiping God. Regular reflection on our attitudes and actions can help maintain this focus.

What is the significance of 'assembling together'?

'Assembling together' highlights the importance of community and fellowship among believers. It emphasizes that Christians are called to gather for worship, support, and encouragement. This collective worship is essential for spiritual growth and unity in the body of Christ.

What does 1 Corinthians 11:20 teach about unity in the church?

1 Corinthians 11:20 teaches that unity is crucial in the church, especially during communal worship like the Lord's Supper. It warns against divisions and selfishness, encouraging believers to come together with a spirit of love and respect, reflecting the unity that Christ desires for His body.

Memory Tips

To remember 1 Corinthians 11:20, focus on key phrases such as "assemble together" and "not the Lord’s supper that you eat." You could create a mental image of a table set for the Lord's Supper, but with empty chairs representing those who are excluded due to division. This visual can reinforce the importance of unity in your mind.

Incorporate this verse into your daily devotions by setting aside time to meditate on its meaning. Consider journaling about what the Lord’s Supper means to you and how you can contribute to unity in your church. Reflect on specific actions you can take to ensure your gatherings honor God, such as reaching out to someone you may have overlooked.

For a mnemonic device, think of the acronym "UNITY"—U for 'Understanding,' N for 'Nourishing community,' I for 'Inclusive actions,' T for 'True remembrance,' and Y for 'Your participation matters.' This can help you internalize the verse and its message about the importance of community in your faith journey.