1 Corinthians 11:28

But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of [that] bread, and drink of [that] cup.

But {G1161} let {G1381} a man {G444} examine {G1381} himself {G1438}, and {G2532} so {G3779} let him eat {G2068} of {G1537} that bread {G740}, and {G2532} drink {G4095} of {G1537} that cup {G4221}.

So let a person examine himself first, and then he may eat of the bread and drink from the cup;

Each one must examine himself before he eats of the bread and drinks of the cup.

But let a man prove himself, and so let him eat of the bread, and drink of the cup.

Commentary

1 Corinthians 11:28 delivers a crucial directive from the Apostle Paul concerning participation in the Lord's Supper, also known as Communion. It places the emphasis squarely on individual spiritual readiness and self-assessment before partaking of the bread and the cup, which symbolize Christ's body and blood.

Context

This verse is part of Paul's detailed instructions to the Corinthian church regarding their conduct during communal meals, specifically addressing severe abuses and misunderstandings surrounding the Lord's Supper. In the preceding verses (1 Corinthians 11:23-26), Paul recounts the institution of the Supper by Jesus himself, establishing its profound significance. He then warns against partaking in an "unworthy manner," which could lead to judgment. Verse 28 provides the antidote to such unworthiness: personal examination.

Key Themes

  • Individual Self-Examination: The core command, "let a man examine himself," underscores the personal responsibility each believer has to assess their spiritual state, motives, and understanding before approaching the Lord's table. It is a call to honest introspection, not to achieve sinless perfection, but to ensure a sincere heart.
  • Reverence and Discernment: Participation in Communion is not a casual ritual. It demands a solemn and respectful acknowledgment of Christ's ultimate sacrifice—His body broken and His blood shed for the new covenant. Self-examination ensures one approaches with proper reverence and spiritual discernment of the elements' meaning.
  • Spiritual Preparedness: This verse highlights the need for spiritual readiness. It's about ensuring one is in a right relationship with God and, by extension, with fellow believers, as the Supper is a communal expression of unity in Christ.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "examine" is dokimazō (δοκιμάζω). This term means to test, scrutinize, or prove something with the aim of discerning its genuineness or quality. It implies a thorough and honest evaluation, not a superficial glance. The goal of this self-testing is to ensure that one's heart and attitude are in line with the sacredness of the occasion, understanding that it signifies Christ's sacrifice and the believer's participation in His body.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 11:28 remains a powerful guide for participating in the Lord's Supper. It encourages a moment of spiritual discipline and reflection:

  • Reflect on Christ's Sacrifice: Take time to remember the profound love and immense cost of salvation that the bread and cup represent.
  • Confess Sins: Honestly acknowledge any known sins and seek God's forgiveness. As 1 John 1:9 states, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins."
  • Examine Relationships: Consider one's relationships with other believers, seeking reconciliation where necessary, as Communion is also a symbol of Christian unity.
  • Renew Commitment: Use this opportunity to reaffirm one's faith and commitment to following Jesus Christ.

By diligently examining oneself, a believer ensures that their participation in the Lord's Supper is a meaningful act of worship and remembrance, honoring Christ and avoiding the spiritual consequences mentioned in 1 Corinthians 11:29-30 for those who partake without discernment.

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Cross-References

  • Galatians 6:4 (18 votes)

    But let every man prove his own work, and then shall he have rejoicing in himself alone, and not in another.

  • 2 Corinthians 13:5 (14 votes)

    Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?

  • Lamentations 3:40 (12 votes)

    Let us search and try our ways, and turn again to the LORD.

  • Matthew 5:23 (8 votes)

    Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee;

  • Matthew 5:24 (8 votes)

    Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; first be reconciled to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.

  • 1 Corinthians 11:31 (7 votes)

    For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.

  • Haggai 1:7 (7 votes)

    Thus saith the LORD of hosts; Consider your ways.