1 Corinthians 11: A Lesson in Humility and Order
In the eleventh chapter of 1 Corinthians, Paul addresses two important issues that were affecting the Corinthian church: the proper behavior of men and women in worship, and the institution of the Lord's Supper.
Head Coverings and Hair: A Sign of Authority
The chapter begins with Paul addressing the issue of head coverings and hair. In those days, a woman's hair was seen as a symbol of her glory, and to pray or prophesy with her head uncovered was seen as shameful. Paul instructs the women to cover their heads while praying or prophesying, as a sign of respect for their husbands and a symbol of authority.
"Every man who prays or prophesies with his head covered dishonors his head. But every woman who prays or prophesies with her head uncovered dishonors her head, for it is the same as if she were shaved." (1 Corinthians 11:4-5)
The Order of Creation and Authority
Paul then goes on to explain the order of creation and the authority of man and woman. He states that man was created first, and that woman was created from man. Therefore, man is the head of woman, just as Christ is the head of man.
"For a man ought not to cover his head, since he is the image and glory of God, but woman is the glory of man. For man was not made from woman, but woman from man. Neither was man created for woman, but woman for man." (1 Corinthians 11:7-9)
The Lord's Supper: A Celebration of Unity
The second half of the chapter deals with the institution of the Lord's Supper. Paul corrects the Corinthian church's abuses of the Lord's Supper, where some were eating ahead of others and getting drunk, while others were going hungry.
"What! Do you not have houses to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I commend you in this? No, I will not." (1 Corinthians 11:22)
Paul reminds the church that the Lord's Supper is a celebration of unity and the body of Christ, where all believers come together as one.
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes." (1 Corinthians 11:26)
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 11, Paul teaches the importance of humility, respect, and order in the church. He emphasizes the need for men and women to respect their roles and authorities, and for believers to come together in unity to celebrate the Lord's Supper. As we apply these principles to our own lives, may we grow in humility, respect, and love for one another.
