Honor, Unity, and the Lord’s Supper
Paul's instructions in 1 Corinthians 11 call believers to honor both God’s design and each other, particularly in corporate worship. His discussion on head coverings addresses cultural expressions of respect, while his rebuke regarding the Lord’s Supper highlights the necessity of unity within the body of Christ. Underneath these issues lies a deeper truth: when we gather as the church, our focus must be on Christ rather than on status, personal rights, or divisions.
Reflection on Key Truths
Paul first addresses how men and women should conduct themselves in worship, using the cultural practice of head coverings to illustrate the importance of honoring God’s order. In Corinth, some men were adopting pagan religious customs, and some wives were rejecting outward expressions of their commitment to their husbands. Paul’s concern was not about fashion but about what these actions communicated—either reverence for God’s design or a disregard for it.
The second issue, however, struck at the heart of the church’s unity. The Lord’s Supper was being corrupted by selfishness. Instead of gathering as one, wealthier believers indulged in their own feasts while the poorer members were left with nothing. Paul reminded them that the Lord’s Supper was not a personal meal but a communal act of remembrance and proclamation of Christ’s sacrifice. In failing to discern this, they dishonored Christ Himself.
Practical Applications
Recognizing God’s Order – While cultural expressions of respect change over time, the heart behind them does not. Honor in worship means that our actions should reflect humility and submission to Christ, not self-promotion or rebellion.
Unity in Worship – When we gather, we do so as one body. Church is not a place for social distinction but for shared participation in Christ’s grace.
The Lord’s Supper as a Proclamation – Communion is more than a ritual; it is a declaration of the gospel, a renewal of our focus on Christ’s finished work, and a reminder of our unity in Him.
Examining Our Hearts – Paul urges believers to approach the table rightly. The Lord’s Supper is a time of self-examination, repentance, and reconciliation—not with fear, but with gratitude for Christ’s atonement and a commitment to walk in love toward others.
A Living Illustration
Imagine a grand banquet prepared by a generous host. The invitation is extended to all, but upon arrival, the wealthy guests rush in, hoarding the best portions, while the less fortunate are left outside with nothing. The host is dishonored, not because there wasn’t enough food, but because the spirit of the gathering was violated. This was the error of the Corinthian church—treating a sacred moment of fellowship as an opportunity for division rather than unity. When we partake of the Lord’s Supper, we are not simply receiving a meal but participating in the grace of Christ together.
A Prayer of Confidence and Trust
Father, we stand in the fullness of what You have accomplished through Christ. You have set us in order, called us to unity, and provided everything we need in Him. As we worship, let our hearts reflect Your design, our lives display the humility of Christ, and our gatherings demonstrate the oneness we share in Him. We partake of the Lord’s Supper as those who have been redeemed, remembering His sacrifice and proclaiming His return. Thank You for the privilege of this communion with You and with one another. May we walk in the reality of this truth, honoring You in all we do. Amen.
Final Thought
Paul’s correction to the Corinthians serves as a timeless reminder: our worship is not about asserting rights or maintaining status, but about honoring Christ. Whether in personal conduct or corporate gatherings, our focus must be on Him. When we come together in unity, reflecting His love and sacrifice, we truly embody what it means to be His body on earth.