1 Corinthians 1:11

For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them [which are of the house] of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

For {G1063} it hath been declared {G1213} unto me {G3427} of {G4012} you {G5216}, my {G3450} brethren {G80}, by {G5259} them which are of the house {G3588} of Chloe {G5514}, that {G3754} there are {G1526} contentions {G2054} among {G1722} you {G5213}.

For some of Chloe’s people have made it known to me, my brothers, that there are quarrels among you.

My brothers, some from Chloe’s household have informed me that there are quarrels among you.

For it hath been signified unto me concerning you, my brethren, by them that are of the household of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

In 1 Corinthians 1:11, the Apostle Paul immediately addresses a critical issue within the Corinthian church: severe internal divisions. This verse reveals the source of his information and sets the stage for much of his subsequent instruction in the letter.

Context

The city of Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan Roman port renowned for its wealth, trade, and unfortunately, its moral laxity and diverse philosophical schools. The church in Corinth, though vibrant, was deeply influenced by the surrounding culture, leading to various spiritual and ethical problems. Paul, having founded this church, writes this letter to correct these issues and provide guidance. This particular verse highlights that Paul received specific, credible reports about the state of the church, not mere rumors. The phrase "them [which are of the house] of Chloe" indicates that these were reliable individuals, likely members of a prominent household in the Corinthian Christian community, who had direct knowledge of the internal strife and felt compelled to inform Paul. This demonstrates a network of communication within the early church, where concerns could be conveyed to apostolic leadership for intervention.

Key Themes

  • Divisions and Factions: The primary message of this verse is the alarming presence of "contentions" (Greek: eris) among the Corinthian believers. This word signifies strife, rivalry, and quarreling, pointing to serious disunity rather than simple disagreements. This problem of factionalism, often centered around different leaders or philosophical preferences, is a recurring theme Paul tackles throughout the initial chapters of 1 Corinthians, emphasizing the critical importance of unity in the body of Christ.
  • Apostolic Awareness and Concern: Paul's immediate address of these divisions underscores his deep pastoral concern for the spiritual well-being of the church he helped establish. He doesn't ignore the problem but confronts it directly, demonstrating his commitment to the integrity and health of the Christian community.
  • Reliable Information: The specific mention of "the house of Chloe" highlights the importance of credible sources in addressing church issues. It suggests that Paul's actions are based on verifiable reports, not unfounded accusations, setting a precedent for handling sensitive matters within the church.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated as "contentions" is eris (ἔρις). This term frequently appears in New Testament lists of vices or "works of the flesh" (e.g., Galatians 5:20), alongside jealousies, wrath, and strife. It describes a contentious spirit, a disposition to quarrel and compete, which is fundamentally opposed to the spirit of love and unity that should characterize Christ's followers. Paul's use of such a strong term indicates the gravity of the divisions threatening the Corinthian church.

Practical Application

The message of 1 Corinthians 1:11 remains highly relevant for churches today. It serves as a potent reminder of the dangers of internal strife, favoritism, and factionalism within Christian communities. Believers are called to prioritize Christian unity over personal preferences, theological disagreements, or loyalty to specific leaders. Just as Paul sought to address these issues promptly, contemporary church leaders and members are challenged to identify and resolve divisions that hinder the church's witness and mission. The verse also implicitly teaches the importance of responsible communication within the church, where genuine concerns are brought to appropriate authorities for resolution, rather than fostering gossip or further division.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Galatians 5:26

    Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.

  • 1 Timothy 6:4

    He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,

  • 2 Timothy 2:23

    But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.

  • 2 Timothy 2:25

    In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;

  • 1 Corinthians 3:3

    For ye are yet carnal: for whereas [there is] among you envying, and strife, and divisions, are ye not carnal, and walk as men?

  • Proverbs 18:6

    ¶ A fool's lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.

  • Genesis 27:42

    And these words of Esau her elder son were told to Rebekah: and she sent and called Jacob her younger son, and said unto him, Behold, thy brother Esau, as touching thee, doth comfort himself, [purposing] to kill thee.

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