How can we apply the lessons of 1 Corinthians 11:22 to modern church life? Heart of the Passage 1 Corinthians 11:22: “Do you not have your own homes in which to eat and drink? Or do you despise the church of God and humiliate those who have nothing? What can I say to you? Shall I commend you? In no way!” Timeless Principles Drawn from the Verse • The gathered church is holy ground, not a place for selfish indulgence. • Fellowship meals and the Lord’s Supper must honor Christ and uplift every believer, especially the vulnerable. • Despising or ignoring those “who have nothing” attacks the unity of Christ’s body. • Leaders must refuse to praise conduct that harms the church’s witness. Supporting Passages That Echo the Same Truth • Acts 2:44-47 — early believers shared “all things in common,” ensuring no one lacked. • James 2:1-7 — partiality toward the wealthy is condemned as sin. • Philippians 2:3-5 — “in humility value others above yourselves,” following the mind of Christ. • Romans 12:10-13 — brotherly affection, honor, and hospitality characterize genuine love. • Galatians 6:10 — “let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who belong to the household of faith.” Where Today’s Church Can Slip into the Same Error • Treating communal gatherings as private social events for close friends rather than open family celebrations. • Turning fellowship meals into competitions of status, culinary display, or insider cliques. • Overlooking members who struggle financially, relationally, or emotionally during church functions. • Leaders tolerating divisive behavior in order to avoid confrontation. Practical Congregational Corrections • Establish a clear, Christ-honoring purpose for every shared meal: remembrance, fellowship, and mutual edification. • Arrange seating and serving methods that naturally mix ages, backgrounds, and economic levels. • Invite those with fewer resources to serve in visible, meaningful roles—affirming dignity rather than magnifying need. • Budget benevolence funds or “love feasts” so that the cost of participation never excludes anyone. • Teach regularly on unity, generosity, and the seriousness of the Lord’s Table (1 Corinthians 11:27-29). • Encourage leaders to address favoritism or neglect promptly, modeling Paul’s refusal to commend sin. Personal Action Points for Every Believer • Arrive at church gatherings with a mindset to give, not merely to consume. • Intentionally greet and sit with someone outside your usual circle, reflecting Romans 15:7. • Bring extra food or supplies to shared meals, quietly ensuring plenty for guests and those in need. • Consider anonymous gifts—grocery cards, envelopes of cash, or other helps—to brothers and sisters facing hardship. • Speak words of honor and gratitude to those who often serve unseen, fulfilling 1 Thessalonians 5:11. Closing Encouragement The Lord who watched over the early church still builds His body today. Loving, selfless fellowship displays His glory and proclaims the gospel louder than any sermon. Living out the lessons of 1 Corinthians 11:22 turns ordinary meals into holy celebrations where Christ is publicly exalted and every believer is cherished. |
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