How does 1 Corinthians 11:17 connect with Jesus' teachings on unity in John 17? Setting the Scene 1 Corinthians 11:17: “In the following instructions I have no praise to offer, because your gatherings do more harm than good.” John 17:20-23 (excerpt): “…that all of them may be one, just as You, Father, are in Me and I am in You… so that the world may know that You sent Me and have loved them even as You have loved Me.” 1 Corinthians 11:17—A Call to Examine Our Gatherings • Paul confronts believers whose meetings foster division rather than edification. • The phrase “more harm than good” exposes a fellowship failing to reflect Christ’s body. • Context: factions at the Lord’s Table (vv. 18-22) reveal hearts out of sync with gospel unity. John 17—Jesus Prays for Oneness • Jesus petitions the Father that His followers “may all be one.” • Unity is rooted in the Trinity’s perfect communion—Father, Son, Spirit. • The goal: a visible testimony so “the world may believe.” Shared Threads of Unity • Source: Both passages ground unity in Christ’s work—Paul appeals to the cross (v. 26); Jesus points to shared glory (v. 22). • Witness: Discord in Corinth undercuts gospel credibility; Jesus makes credibility contingent on oneness. • Holiness: Unity is never compromise; it flows from truth (John 17:17) and reverence at the Table (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). Practical Takeaways for the Church Today • Examine motives before gathering—seek others’ good, not personal status. • Celebrate the Lord’s Supper as a unifying proclamation of Christ’s death. • Guard speech and actions so meetings showcase God’s love, echoing Jesus’ prayer. • Remember that unity is Spirit-produced (Ephesians 4:3), yet believers must “make every effort” to preserve it. Additional Supporting Scriptures • Psalm 133:1—“How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” • Romans 15:5-6—“So that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.” • Colossians 3:14—“Above all these, put on love, which is the bond of perfect unity.” 1 Corinthians 11:17 warns; John 17 envisions. Together they call the church to meetings that mirror the unity Jesus prayed for and purchased. |
    |