1 Corinthians 11:17-34
To celebrate Lord’s Supper without judgment we must recognize and respect the body of Christ.
A Church Gathered to Divide (vv. 17-22)
A Church United by Remembering (vv. 23-26)
A Church Recognized and Respected (vv. 27-34)
Discussion Questions
Read 1 Corinthians 11:17-34. What do you think is the main point of this passage?
In this whole section, chapter 11-14, Paul argues for thoughtfulness and intentionality in our church’s worship gatherings. Have you ever fallen into prayer-less praying, heartless singing, a wandering mind in preaching, ritualistic practice of the Lord’s Supper, or other disengaged worship? How do we guard against this? How do we continue to cultivate in our church worship that is meaningful, intentional, and from the heart?
Consider v. 22. Paul is concerned that some people in the church are despising or humiliating others rather than honoring and respecting them. What are some ways that we may be in danger of despising or humiliating others in the church?
Consider vv. 23-26. How is Jesus’ attitude toward the church in the institution of the Lord’s Supper different than that of despising or humiliating? How does he honor the church?
Consider v. 25. Jesus points to the Lord’s Supper as the renewal of the new covenant in his blood. What does this mean and how is it meaningful to you?
Consider vv. 27-34. The word “discern” means to “differentiate by separating” and to “recognize and appropriately esteem.” What are some ways that we can fail to discern the body of Christ (the church) around the Lord’s Supper in our context?
How is God calling you to respond to this message on 1 Corinthians 11:17-34?
