1 Corinthians 10:17

For we [being] many are one bread, [and] one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.

For {G3754} we {G2070} being many {G4183} are {G2070} one {G1520} bread {G740}, and one {G1520} body {G4983}: for {G1063} we are {G3348} all {G3956} partakers {G3348} of {G1537} that one {G1520} bread {G740}.

Because there is one loaf of bread, we who are many constitute one body, since we all partake of the one loaf of bread.

Because there is one loaf, we who are many are one body; for we all partake of the one loaf.

seeing that we, who are many, are one bread, one body: for we all partake of the one bread.

1 Corinthians 10:17 beautifully articulates the profound unity among believers, drawing a powerful parallel with the Christian practice of the Lord's Supper.

Context of 1 Corinthians 10:17

This verse is situated within a critical section of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he warns against idolatry and participation in pagan rituals. Prior to this, Paul uses the history of Israel in the wilderness as a cautionary tale (1 Corinthians 10:1-13), emphasizing the dangers of spiritual complacency and disobedience. Immediately preceding verse 17, in 1 Corinthians 10:16, Paul discusses the "cup of blessing" and the "bread which we break" as communion with the blood and body of Christ. Thus, verse 17 builds directly on the spiritual significance of the Lord's Supper, contrasting it with the fellowship involved in pagan sacrifices, which Paul explicitly forbids.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Unity of Believers: The central message is that despite being "many," Christians are fundamentally "one bread" and "one body." This highlights the supernatural unity forged by their shared faith and participation in Christ.
  • Significance of the Lord's Supper: The act of partaking in "that one bread" (the bread of communion) is not merely a symbolic ritual but a profound declaration and experience of corporate identity in Christ. It binds believers together, signifying their common life and spiritual nourishment from Christ.
  • The Body of Christ: This verse reinforces the Pauline concept of the Church as the Body of Christ, where each believer is a vital member. Just as a single loaf of bread is made from many grains, so the Church is formed by many individuals united in Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "one body" translates from the Greek hen sōma (ἓν σῶμα), a consistent theme in Paul's theology to describe the Church. The term "partakers" comes from metochoi (μέτοχοι), meaning 'sharers' or 'fellows', emphasizing a deep, communal participation in something common. This isn't just about individual consumption but about shared identity and fellowship that arises from this act of communion.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 10:17 serves as a powerful reminder of the call to unity within the Christian community. It urges us to:

  • Cherish Church Unity: Recognize that our shared participation in the Lord's Supper should foster practical love, mutual respect, and harmony among diverse believers. Divisions within the church contradict the very essence of what the "one bread" represents.
  • Revere the Lord's Supper: Understand that communion is not just a personal act of remembrance, but a corporate affirmation of our oneness in Christ. It calls us to examine our hearts and relationships before partaking (1 Corinthians 11:28).
  • Live as One Body: Just as different parts of a body work together, believers are called to use their spiritual gifts and serve one another, contributing to the health and growth of the entire church, reflecting the unity of the "one bread" they share. This unity is a powerful witness to the world of God's reconciling power (John 17:21).
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.

  • Romans 12:5

    So we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

  • Colossians 3:15

    And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:27

    ¶ Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

  • 1 Corinthians 12:12

    ¶ For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also [is] Christ.

  • Galatians 3:26

    For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

  • Galatians 3:28

    There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

  • Ephesians 4:25

    Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.

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