1 Corinthians 11:20

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 11:20 (KJV)

The Apostle Paul's letter to the church in Corinth addresses a myriad of issues, from doctrinal misunderstandings to practical matters of conduct. In 1 Corinthians 11:20, Paul sharply rebukes the Corinthians for their behavior during their communal gatherings, specifically concerning what they called the "Lord's supper."

Context

This verse is part of a larger section (1 Corinthians 11:17-34) where Paul confronts the Corinthians' disorderly and divisive practices during their church meetings. Historically, early Christian communities often shared a common meal, sometimes called an "agape feast" or "love feast," which would culminate in the observance of the Lord's Supper (also known as Communion or Eucharist). However, the Corinthian church had corrupted this practice. Instead of sharing equally and waiting for one another, the wealthier members were eating their fill, even getting drunk, while the poor went hungry. This created stark social divisions within the very setting meant to foster unity and spiritual fellowship.

Paul's statement, "When ye come together therefore into one place, [this] is not to eat the Lord's supper," is a strong condemnation. He is not saying they literally weren't eating anything, but that their manner of eating was so contrary to the spirit and purpose of the Lord's Supper that it ceased to be a true observance of it. Their actions desecrated the sacred meal.

Key Themes

• Disorder and Division: The verse highlights the profound lack of order and unity among the Corinthian believers. Their gatherings, rather than demonstrating Christian love and fellowship, exposed their selfish attitudes and social stratification, directly contradicting the unity of believers in Christ.
• Misunderstanding of Sacred Purpose: The Corinthians had lost sight of the profound spiritual significance of the Lord's Supper. They treated it as an ordinary meal, or worse, an occasion for gluttony and social display, rather than a solemn remembrance of Christ's sacrifice and a proclamation of His return.
• Reverence for Christ's Institution: Paul emphasizes that the "Lord's supper" is not merely a human tradition but an institution established by the Lord Himself. To treat it disrespectfully is to disrespect Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "the Lord's supper" translates the Greek kuriakon deipnon (κυριακὸν δεῖπνον). The adjective kuriakon (κυριακὸν) means "belonging to the Lord" or "of the Lord," emphasizing its divine origin and ownership. It distinguishes this sacred meal from any ordinary supper. The Corinthians were treating a "Lord's supper" as if it were merely "their own supper," stripping it of its unique spiritual significance.

Related Scriptures

Paul goes on to explain the true meaning and proper observance of the Lord's Supper in the verses immediately following. He recounts the institution of the Supper by Jesus Himself (1 Corinthians 11:23-26), stressing its role as a memorial of Christ's body broken and blood shed for the new covenant. He also warns against partaking in an "unworthy manner" (1 Corinthians 11:27), which involves failing to "discern the Lord's body" (1 Corinthians 11:29), meaning to recognize its profound spiritual reality and the unity it represents within the body of Christ (the church).

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 11:20 serves as a powerful reminder:

• Reverence and Self-Examination: The Lord's Supper is a solemn and sacred observance, not a casual social event. It calls for personal reflection, confession, and preparation.
• Unity and Love: Christian gatherings, especially around the communion table, should be marked by love, humility, and genuine concern for one another, overcoming social or economic distinctions.
• Focus on Christ: The primary purpose of communion is to remember Jesus Christ's atoning sacrifice and His promise of return, fostering a deeper relationship with Him and His church.

This verse challenges us to ensure that our worship and fellowship truly honor the Lord and reflect the transforming power of His gospel.