Introduction

This verse introduces a significant passage in Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he addresses the issues of order and propriety in the church, particularly during the Lord’s Supper. The apostle moves from praise to condemnation, reflecting the serious nature of the matters at hand.

Exegesis

The apostle Paul states that he cannot commend the Corinthians for their gatherings, as they had devolved into a source of division and disorder. The phrase "not for the better, but for the worse" indicates that their meetings were contributing negatively to the community rather than uplifting it.

Insights from Matthew Henry

Matthew Henry emphasizes the gravity of the situation. He notes that the gatherings intended for worship had become a place of misunderstanding and disorder. Instead of edifying one another, the Corinthians were causing divisions. He highlights the necessity of approaching communal worship with a spirit of unity and reverence.

• Division in the Church: Henry points out that a divided church cannot fulfill its mission. The disunity present in the Corinthian congregation stood in stark contrast to Christ's desire for His body to be one.
• Worship's Purpose: He reminds readers that the primary purpose of coming together is to glorify God and to build one another up in faith, a principle often overlooked by the Corinthians.

Insights from Albert Barnes

Albert Barnes provides a detailed analysis of the implications of this verse. He interprets Paul's statement as a critical reflection on the behavior of the Corinthians. According to Barnes, their approach to the Lord’s Supper was not merely a failure of etiquette; it was symptomatic of deeper spiritual problems.

• Failure to Discern: Barnes stresses that the Corinthians failed to discern the body of Christ and the significance of the sacrament, which led to their corruption of the purpose of communion.
• Consequences of Disharmony: He warns that such disunity and failure to respect the sacredness of worship can lead to judgment and condemnation, as Paul would later elaborate in this chapter.

Insights from Adam Clarke

Adam Clarke expands on the concept of gatherings and what they signify for the community of believers. He sees Paul as not merely being critical but deeply pastoral, concerned for the spiritual well-being of the church.

• Expectation of Improvement: Clarke notes that Paul expected their coming together to result in maturity and growth, a theme pervasive throughout his letters.
• Call to Repentance: He emphasizes the apostolic call to repentance, urging the Corinthians to reflect on their practices and seek genuine restoration and unity.

Theological Implications

The implications of this verse are profound for contemporary congregations. It raises questions about how we gather as the church today. Are our meetings for worship and communion bringing us closer to one another and to God, or are they sources of division?

• Community and Unity: The church's health is often gauged by its capacity for unity in diversity. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and actions within the community.
• Health of Worship: It invites reflection on our worship practices—are they reverent and elevating, or do they reflect personal interests and divisions?

Practical Application

For pastors, students, theologians, and scholars, the lessons from this verse are clear:

• Self-Examination: Regularly evaluate personal and corporate worship practices. Consider whether gatherings are genuinely edifying or if they perpetuate divisions.
• Promote Unity: Foster an environment of openness, love, and understanding, emphasizing the importance of unity in Christ in all church activities.
• Educate on Sacraments: Teach about the significance of the Lord’s Supper and communal worship, ensuring that congregants understand the sacredness of these acts.

Conclusion

1 Corinthians 11:17 serves as a pivotal reminder of the need for earnestness and seriousness in our approaches to communal worship. Paul’s admonition against the Corinthians’ unhealthy practices offers timeless wisdom that leaders in the church must heed. The call for better gatherings invites contemporary Christians to strive for unity, spiritual growth, and a reflection of Christ’s body in their assembly.