What does 1 Corinthians 11:17 teach about the importance of unity in worship?

◄ 1 Cor 11:17 on unity in worship? ►

“In the following instructions I have no praise to offer, because your gatherings do more harm than good.”

• Written to believers already meeting regularly for worship and the Lord’s Supper.

• Paul transitions from commendation (v.2) to strong correction, signaling a serious problem.

• The phrase “do more harm than good” shows that disunity can actually negate the intended blessing of worship.

The Heart of the Rebuke: Division Destroys Worship

• Worship gatherings are meant for edification (Hebrews 10:24–25); factionalism reverses that purpose.

• Paul’s “no praise” contrasts sharply with earlier commendations (11:2), underscoring how seriously God views disunity.

• The underlying issue is relational fracture, not a mere procedural error.

• When believers come “together as a church” (v.18) yet harbor division, they misrepresent Christ’s body (cf. v.29).

Why Unity Matters to God

• Jesus prayed “that they may all be one… so that the world may believe” (John 17:21). Disunity blurs that testimony.

• Psalm 133:1 celebrates corporate harmony as “good and pleasant.” Paul echoes the same standard for New-Testament worship.

• One Spirit forms one body (1 Corinthians 12:12–13); worship must reflect that spiritual reality.

• The Lord’s Supper, addressed in v.20-34, is a communion; division profanes its meaning (v.27).

• Unity safeguards love, the “more excellent way” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Consequences of Disunity in Worship

• Spiritual harm: gatherings that “do more harm than good” hinder growth and invite discipline (v.30).

• Broken witness: outsiders see a divided church and doubt the gospel’s power (John 13:34-35).

• Self-deception: participants assume God is pleased, yet Paul offers “no praise.”

• Judgment at the Table: “everyone ought to examine himself” (v.28); unchecked division risks eating and drinking judgment (v.29).

Positive Models of Unified Worship

• Acts 2:46–47—believers meet “with one accord,” resulting in joy and daily conversions.

• 1 Corinthians 1:10—Paul urges complete agreement, illustrating that unity is both commanded and attainable.

• Ephesians 4:3—believers are to “make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”

Practical Takeaways for Today

• Guard relationships: promptly reconcile offenses before corporate worship (Matthew 5:23-24).

• Cultivate one purpose: center gatherings on Christ rather than personal agendas or preferences.

• Practice mutual edification: seek how each can “build up” the body (1 Corinthians 14:26).

• Celebrate the Lord’s Supper worthily: examine attitudes toward fellow believers, repenting of divisive spirits.

• Pray for oneness: regularly intercede that the Spirit maintain unity and silence factions.