What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 11:32? But Paul starts with a gentle pivot. He has just warned the Corinthians that careless participation in the Lord’s Supper brings real consequences—even sickness and death (1 Corinthians 11:27-30). Yet he reminds them: • God’s “but” means hope still stands. • Judgment exists, but it is not the last word for believers (Psalm 30:5). • The contrast prepares us for grace in discipline rather than wrath in condemnation (Romans 5:9). when we are judged by the Lord This judgment is present-tense and personal. Jesus Himself weighs our attitudes and actions: • He observes His church (Revelation 2:23). • “For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God” (1 Peter 4:17). • The context is not eternal fate but fatherly oversight in daily life. we are being disciplined Discipline is the Lord’s loving remedy, not rejection: • Hebrews 12:6: “For the Lord disciplines the one He loves.” • Proverbs 3:12 links discipline to love, echoing parental care. • Goals of discipline: – Restore reverence at the Lord’s Table. – Produce holiness and peaceable fruit of righteousness (Hebrews 12:11). – Deepen dependence on Christ (2 Corinthians 1:9). so that we will not be condemned with the world Here is the ultimate safeguard: God’s corrective hand prevents eternal condemnation. • John 5:24 promises believers have “crossed over from death to life.” • Romans 8:1 affirms “there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” • Discipline keeps us distinct from the unbelieving world awaiting final judgment (Revelation 20:11-15). summary 1 Corinthians 11:32 reveals a gracious pattern: the Lord intervenes now, judging His children’s conduct so He can lovingly discipline them and spare them from the condemnation reserved for the unrepentant world. His present correction proves our belonging, shapes holy living, and guarantees that final judgment will hold no dread for those in Christ. |
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