1 Corinthians 11:23

“For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread.”

1 Corinthians 11:23 (KJV) is part of a larger passage in which the apostle Paul addresses the issue of proper conduct during the Lord’s Supper or communion. In this particular verse, Paul focuses on the historical event of Jesus instituting the Lord’s Supper.

The Authority of Paul’s Teaching:

Paul begins by emphasizing that what he is about to share with the Corinthians is not his personal opinion or teaching, but something he received directly from the Lord Jesus Himself. This highlights the authority and importance of his instruction.

The Timing of the Lord’s Supper:

Paul mentions that Jesus established the Lord’s Supper “the same night in which he was betrayed.” This points to the context of the Last Supper, which took place on the evening before Jesus’ crucifixion.

Jesus Taking Bread:

Paul highlights that Jesus took bread during the Last Supper. This action serves as the starting point for the institution of the Lord’s Supper. The breaking of bread holds significant symbolism, representing Jesus’ body being broken for us on the cross.

Overall, 1 Corinthians 11:23 serves as a reminder of the origins of the Lord’s Supper and the authority of Paul’s teaching. It emphasises the importance of remembering Jesus’ sacrificial death through the symbols of bread and wine in the communion ceremony.

By studying this verse and the surrounding context, we can gain a deeper understanding of the significance of the Lord’s Supper and the reverence with which we should approach it.