What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 11:28? Each one Paul writes, “Each one must examine himself…” (1 Corinthians 11:28). Notice how personal this command is—no believer is exempt. • This makes the Lord’s Table an individual responsibility, echoing Romans 14:12, “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” • It rules out hiding behind group piety (Galatians 6:4). • It underscores that every Christian, regardless of maturity or position, stands directly before the Lord when approaching Communion (2 Corinthians 5:10). must examine The verb “examine” calls for a deliberate, honest self-inspection. • Psalm 139:23-24 models the attitude: “Search me, O God, and know my heart…” • Lamentations 3:40 urges, “Let us examine and test our ways and turn back to the LORD.” • The intent is not self-condemnation but Spirit-guided assessment leading to repentance (1 John 1:9). himself Self-evaluation keeps the focus on personal sin rather than others’ shortcomings. • Jesus taught the same principle about removing “the plank from your own eye first” (Matthew 7:3-5). • Galatians 6:1-5 balances mutual care with personal responsibility—restore others gently while “each one should test his own work.” • The goal is a clear conscience before God (Acts 24:16). before he eats of the bread Timing matters. Examination precedes participation so the meal remains pure worship, not routine. • Israel prepared before Passover (Exodus 12:15) and before meeting God at Sinai (Exodus 19:10-11). • Jesus said, “First be reconciled to your brother, and then come and offer your gift” (Matthew 5:23-24); relational integrity is part of preparation. • By pausing beforehand, we guard against partaking “in an unworthy manner” that brings discipline (1 Corinthians 11:27, 30). and drinks of the cup Bread and cup together proclaim Christ’s body and blood (1 Corinthians 11:26). Proper examination allows believers to: • Remember His sacrifice with gratitude (Luke 22:19-20). • Reaffirm unity in His body (1 Corinthians 10:16-17). • Anticipate His return with hope (Matthew 26:29). When hearts are cleansed, drinking the cup becomes a joyful celebration rather than a ritual or a cause for judgment (Hebrews 10:19-22). summary 1 Corinthians 11:28 calls every believer to a sober, honest heart-check before participating in Communion. Personal examination, guided by Scripture and the Spirit, clears away sin, restores relationships, and readies us to share the bread and cup with reverence, gratitude, and unity, proclaiming the Lord’s death until He comes. |
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