1 Corinthians 11:28

“But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.”

Context:To fully understand the verse, it’s important to consider the context of the passage. In 1 Corinthians 11, the apostle Paul addresses various issues related to public worship, particularly focusing on the conduct and order within the Corinthian church during the Lord’s Supper or communion.

Verse:1 Corinthians 11:28 (KJV) states, “But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup.”

Self-Examination:The verse emphasises the need for self-examination before participating in the Lord’s Supper. It suggests that individuals should examine their hearts, motives, and actions to ensure they approach the communion table in a worthy manner.

Personal Responsibility:The phrase “let a man examine himself” highlights the personal responsibility of each believer. It implies that the act of self-examination is an individual duty rather than relying on others to examine or judge them.

The Purpose of Self-Examination:Self-examination before partaking in the Lord’s Supper is essential for several reasons:

a. Reverence and Respect: It helps believers approach the sacrament with reverence and respect, recognising the significance of Christ’s sacrifice and the spiritual implications of communion.

b. Discerning the Body: In the surrounding verses (1 Corinthians 11:27-30), Paul emphasises the importance of discerning the body of Christ. This can refer to both the physical body of Jesus, represented in the bread and wine, as well as the spiritual body of believers, the church. Self-examination ensures that believers are not participating in an unworthy manner or treating the Lord’s Supper lightly.

c. Repentance and Reconciliation: Self-examination prompts individuals to reflect on their relationship with God and others. It provides an opportunity to confess sins, seek forgiveness, and pursue reconciliation with God and fellow believers.

Application:The verse encourages believers to regularly engage in self-examination, not only in the context of the Lord’s Supper but also in their overall spiritual lives. It reminds us to evaluate our thoughts, actions, and attitudes before God, seeking His guidance, forgiveness, and transformation.

• Communion as a Communal Practice:While 1 Corinthians 11:28 emphasises personal self-examination, it is important to note that the Lord’s Supper is also a communal practice. The Corinthian church had been experiencing divisions and abuses during the Lord’s Supper, leading Paul to address these issues in the broader context of the chapter.
• Participation in Unity:As believers examine themselves individually, they should also consider their relationships with other believers. The practice of the Lord’s Supper should foster unity, love, and mutual edification within the body of Christ.

Remember, this Bible study is not exhaustive, but it provides a starting point for understanding and applying 1 Corinthians 11:28. It is beneficial to read the surrounding verses and consult additional resources, such as commentaries or sermons, to gain a deeper understanding of the passage.