How can 1 Corinthians 11:16 guide us in resolving modern church disagreements? Setting the Context 1 Corinthians 11:16: “If anyone is inclined to dispute this, we have no other practice, nor do the churches of God.” Paul has just taught on head coverings, then ends with a principle: when disagreement threatens unity, look to the settled, apostolic practice embraced by all the churches. That principle still speaks powerfully today. Key Insight: “No Other Practice” • “No other practice” anchors believers to one authoritative source—God-given apostolic instruction, now preserved in Scripture. • “The churches of God” underscores that doctrine was never meant to be invented locally; it was delivered once for all and shared among all congregations (cf. Jude 3). • Paul’s wording assumes Scripture’s sufficiency and finality—no competing custom stands alongside what God has revealed (2 Timothy 3:16-17). Principles for Resolving Disagreements Today • Elevate inspired teaching above personal preference. – Compare every opinion with clear biblical directives (Acts 17:11). • Lean on the unanimity of Scripture, not isolated proof-texts. – Let the entire counsel of God speak (Acts 20:27). • Seek harmony with historic, global church practice when it agrees with Scripture. – “Stand firm and hold to the traditions you were taught” (2 Thessalonians 2:15). • Preserve unity without sacrificing truth. – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace” (Ephesians 4:3). • Distinguish between essentials and disputables. – On core gospel truths: zero compromise (Galatians 1:8-9). – On secondary matters: show charity (Romans 14:19). Practical Steps for a Local Church 1. Identify the precise issue and ask, “What does Scripture explicitly teach?” 2. Trace the theme across related passages; avoid building a doctrine on a single verse. 3. Examine how faithful believers across centuries have applied the text. 4. Invite open discussion under pastoral oversight, but keep the Bible open at every meeting. 5. Submit final conclusions to the plain sense of Scripture even if they cut across modern trends. 6. Communicate decisions graciously, emphasizing unity in Christ (Philippians 2:2). Promises and Warnings • Promise: Obedience preserves peace—“Great peace have those who love Your law” (Psalm 119:165). • Warning: Disregarding apostolic practice courts division and discipline—“Note those who cause divisions contrary to the teaching you have learned” (Romans 16:17). Encouragement to Hold Fast When disagreements arise, 1 Corinthians 11:16 calls us back to a simple, liberating pattern: cling to the clear, common teaching of Scripture and unite around what God has already settled. Doing so guards doctrine, nurtures love, and showcases the one Lord who speaks with a single voice to all His churches. |
    |