1 Corinthians 11: Expository Bible Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

1 Corinthians 11 is a pivotal chapter in Paul’s first epistle to the Corinthian church, addressing two major issues related to order and conduct in Christian worship: (1) the principle of headship and its implications for men and women in public prayer and prophecy (vv. 1–16), and (2) the proper observance of the Lord’s Supper (vv. 17–34). Paul confronts both doctrinal errors and practical misconduct, urging the church to align with divine order and reverence.

Theologically, this chapter underscores God’s sovereign design in creation, gender roles, corporate worship, and sacramental remembrance. The authority of Scripture is evident in Paul’s appeal to divine order, creation mandates, apostolic tradition, and the institution of the Lord’s Supper by Christ Himself.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Background

The Corinthian church, composed of diverse Gentile and Jewish believers in a thriving Greco-Roman city, wrestled with applying Christian doctrine in a pagan culture saturated with immorality, status divisions, and disorder. In this context, issues of authority, worship practices, and communal unity were especially pressing.

The early Christian gatherings took place in homes, where the line between public and private worship was blurred. As the gospel transformed lives, believers needed instruction on how to express their freedom in Christ within the bounds of godly order and submission.

Literary Structure

This chapter is structured in two major sections:

Head Coverings and Gender Roles in Worship (vv. 2–16) – A theological and practical discussion rooted in creation and the order of authority.
The Lord’s Supper and Church Discipline (vv. 17–34) – A correction of abuses in communal worship and a reaffirmation of Christ’s institution of the supper.

Paul uses rhetorical questions, comparisons, and appeals to both creation and Christ’s teaching to build his argument, consistent with his epistolary style throughout 1 Corinthians.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. Divine Order and Headship (vv. 2–16)

Theme: God’s design in creation reflects a divine hierarchy: God → Christ → Man → Woman.
Doctrine: This order is not about value or worth but about functional roles ordained by God. Paul appeals to creation, not culture, as the basis (v. 8–9), reinforcing that this is a timeless principle.
Application: Head coverings in the passage symbolize submission to God’s order. While cultural expressions may differ, the principle of honoring God’s structure in male and female roles remains.

Evangelical insight: This affirms the doctrine of complementarianism—that men and women are equal in worth but have distinct roles in home and church life.

2. Apostolic Tradition and Authority (v. 2)

Paul commends the Corinthians for holding fast to traditions, showing that early Christians valued apostolic teaching as authoritative and binding.
This underscores the inerrancy and sufficiency of Scripture, as apostolic teaching is preserved in the inspired biblical canon.

3. The Lord’s Supper: Remembrance and Judgment (vv. 17–34)

Theme: Reverence in communion is essential. The Lord’s Supper is not merely symbolic but a sacred act instituted by Christ for ongoing remembrance.
Doctrine: The table of the Lord demands unity, self-examination, and recognition of the body (v. 29). Abuses brought God’s judgment, even resulting in sickness and death (v. 30).
Paul reaffirms the words of Christ (vv. 23–26), highlighting the continuity of apostolic instruction with Christ’s own commands.

Evangelical insight: This affirms the doctrine of sanctification—believers are called to holiness in all things, including worship, and God disciplines His children (Hebrews 12:6-10).

4. The Image of God and Gender Distinctions (vv. 7–12)

Paul reinforces that man is the image and glory of God, and woman is the glory of man (v. 7), pointing back to Genesis 1-2.
This teaching upholds the doctrine of creation and the image of God in humanity while affirming the distinction and interdependence between male and female.

Sermon Development Notes

A Christ-centered exposition of 1 Corinthians 11 might focus on two key messages:

God’s Design for Order in Worship (vv. 1–16)
God’s Call to Reverence in the Lord’s Table (vv. 17–34)

Each point emphasizes God’s holiness, the authority of Scripture, and the believer’s call to submission, unity, and reverence.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Verses 1–2:

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ. I praise you for remembering me in everything and for holding to the traditions just as I passed them on to you.”

Explanation: Paul affirms his apostolic authority and urges imitation not of himself alone, but of his Christ-like example (cf. 1 Corinthians 4:16; Philippians 3:17).
Cross-reference: John 13:15 – “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”
Doctrinal Insight: Emphasizes discipleship, spiritual leadership, and the binding nature of apostolic teaching.
Application: Church leaders must be examples of Christ-likeness; believers should hold firmly to biblical traditions grounded in Scripture.

Verses 3–6:

“But I want you to realize that the head of every man is Christ, and the head of the woman is man, and the head of Christ is God…”

Explanation: Paul establishes the divine order of authority. “Head” here denotes leadership and source, not inferiority.
Cross-reference: Ephesians 5:23 – “For the husband is the head of the wife as Christ is the head of the church.”
Doctrinal Insight: The verse teaches the principle of headship, rooted in the Trinity itself—God the Father is the head of Christ (in role, not nature), illustrating perfect unity and order.
Application: Male and female roles in the church and home reflect God’s created order. Worship should express this order reverently.

Verses 7–12:

Explanation: Paul appeals to the creation narrative (Genesis 1–2) to affirm gender distinctions. Man reflects God’s glory directly; woman, made from man, reflects man’s glory.
Cross-reference: Genesis 2:21-23 – Woman created from man.
Doctrinal Insight: Both male and female are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:27), but their roles differ by divine design.
Application: Honoring God includes embracing His design. Gender roles are not cultural relics but part of His created order.

Verses 13–16:

Explanation: Paul calls for discernment based on natural signs and church tradition. The practices of the churches support the principle of headship.
Cross-reference: Romans 1:26-27 – Nature testifies to God’s created order.
Doctrinal Insight: Scripture and creation both reveal God’s truth. Unity of practice in the church is vital (v. 16).
Application: Christians should avoid prideful individualism in worship and submit to church authority rooted in God’s Word.

Verses 17–22:

Explanation: Paul rebukes divisions and selfishness at the Lord’s Supper. Some feast while others go hungry, violating the communal purpose.
Cross-reference: Acts 2:44-47 – Early church unity and shared meals.
Doctrinal Insight: The Lord’s Supper is a sacred ordinance, not a social event. Disunity and partiality offend Christ’s body.
Application: Worship must be marked by love, humility, and shared purpose.

Verses 23–26:

“For I received from the Lord what I also passed on to you…”

Explanation: Paul recounts Christ’s institution of the Lord’s Supper. The bread symbolizes His body, the cup His blood of the covenant.
Cross-reference: Luke 22:19-20 – The Last Supper.
Doctrinal Insight: This passage affirms the substitutionary atonement of Christ. His death is proclaimed until He returns.
Application: The Lord’s Supper calls believers to look back in remembrance, inward in examination, and forward in hope.

Verses 27–32:

Explanation: Partaking unworthily brings guilt and judgment. Believers must examine themselves to avoid discipline from the Lord.
Cross-reference: Hebrews 12:6 – “The Lord disciplines the one He loves.”
Doctrinal Insight: God is holy and disciplines His children out of love. The church is accountable to Him.
Application: Communion is sacred. Regular self-examination and repentance are necessary in worship.

Verses 33–34:

Explanation: Paul instructs the church to wait for one another in worship, preserving unity and order.
Cross-reference: Galatians 5:13 – “Serve one another humbly in love.”
Doctrinal Insight: Corporate worship is not individualistic but communal. Reverence and love must guide all actions.
Application: Worship should reflect unity, love, and discipline—showing respect for Christ’s body, the church.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1 Corinthians 11 ultimately points to Christ in several crucial ways:

Christ as the Model of Submission and Headship

Jesus submits to the Father in role, not in nature (v. 3), modeling perfect humility and obedience. This affirms both His deity and His functional submission in the plan of redemption (cf. Philippians 2:6-8).
As the head of the church, Christ governs with love and sacrificial leadership (Ephesians 5:25-27).

Christ in the Lord’s Supper

The chapter centers on Christ’s sacrifice and the new covenant in His blood (v. 25). He is both the Lamb of God (John 1:29) and the coming King (v. 26).
His death secures our forgiveness; His return is our hope. The Supper unites past, present, and future in Christ’s redemptive work.

Christ and Sanctification

Through the Supper and the call to self-examination, Christ sanctifies His church. Discipline from the Lord is a loving act of correction, conforming us to His holiness (Hebrews 12:10).

Connection to God the Father

1 Corinthians 11 not only connects us to Christ but also to God the Father, particularly in His roles as:

1. The Source of All Order (v. 3)

The Father is described as “the head of Christ,” affirming the Father’s initiatory role in the divine order of redemption.
He is the origin of creation, authority, and purpose. All human and ecclesial order stems from His sovereign design.

2. The Giver of Discipline (vv. 29–32)

The Father disciplines His children out of love, using the elements of the Lord’s Supper to sanctify and correct.
His judgment (v. 30) is not condemnation, but fatherly correction so that we will not be condemned with the world.

3. The One to Whom Glory Is Due

Ultimately, all of life and worship must reflect the glory of God the Father (cf. 1 Corinthians 10:31). When men and women live out their roles in worship, when the Lord’s Supper is rightly observed, God is glorified.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Though the Holy Spirit is not mentioned by name in 1 Corinthians 11, His presence is foundational in the background of everything Paul teaches. The Spirit’s role is seen through:

1. The Spirit’s Role in Worship Order

The Spirit is the author of divine order (1 Corinthians 14:33). In chapter 11, the call to honor God’s ordained structure in gender roles and conduct reflects the Spirit’s work in establishing unity and godliness in the church.

2. The Spirit’s Work in Remembrance

Jesus said the Spirit would remind believers of His teachings (John 14:26). The Lord’s Supper, instituted by Christ and recalled in this chapter, is observed properly when the Spirit convicts, teaches, and brings believers into true remembrance of Christ’s sacrifice.

3. The Spirit’s Role in Self-Examination

The call to examine oneself (v. 28) before partaking of the Lord’s Supper requires spiritual discernment, which is the work of the Spirit (1 Corinthians 2:14). The Spirit illuminates sin, guides repentance, and restores fellowship with God and others.

4. The Spirit as Agent of Unity

Paul addresses the divisions in the Corinthian church (v. 18). It is the Spirit who unites the body (1 Corinthians 12:13), and the abuses at the Lord’s Table reveal a failure to walk in the unity the Spirit provides.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Worship That Honors God: Order, Reverence, and Christ”

Text: 1 Corinthians 11

I. Follow the Pattern of Christ (vv. 1–2)

Transition: True worship begins with right examples and faithful traditions.

Main Point: Imitating Christ and holding to apostolic teaching is foundational.
Application: Are we living lives that others can follow as we follow Christ?
Illustration: A child watching a parent’s actions—what kind of example are we setting?

II. Embrace God’s Created Order (vv. 3–16)

Transition: From Christ’s example, Paul moves to the structure of worship rooted in creation.

Main Point: Gender roles in worship reflect God’s design, not human invention.
Application: Our worship must align with God’s ordained pattern of headship and submission.
Example: Like instruments in an orchestra, each playing its part in harmony under the conductor—chaos ensues when roles are ignored.

III. Remember Christ in Reverent Communion (vv. 17–26)

Transition: Paul now shifts from disorder in roles to disorder at the Lord’s Table.

Main Point: The Lord’s Supper proclaims Christ’s death and requires solemn preparation.
Application: When was the last time you truly reflected on the cross before communion?
Illustration: Imagine receiving a wedding ring casually—without thought of the commitment it symbolizes. That’s what flippant communion becomes.

IV. Examine Your Heart Before a Holy God (vv. 27–34)

Transition: Paul’s warning is serious because God is holy.

Main Point: God disciplines those who partake unworthily—not in wrath, but in love.
Application: We must not take sin lightly when approaching sacred things.
Example: A patient who ignores medical warnings—eventually the body bears the consequence. Likewise, sin left unexamined brings correction.

Conclusion: A Call to Action

Reflect: Are you honoring Christ in how you live, worship, and commune?
Repent: If there is pride, disorder, or disunity, confess and seek reconciliation.
Return: Come to the Lord’s Table with a renewed heart, a clean conscience, and reverence for the sacrifice of Christ.

Illustrations and Examples

1. Illustration: The Symphony Conductor

In a symphony, each musician must follow the conductor and play their part. If a violinist tries to play the trumpet’s notes, the music falls into chaos. Likewise, when we abandon God’s design—whether in worship or relationships—we create spiritual dissonance. Harmony in worship comes from trusting God’s order.

2. Personal Story: Communion in a Remote Village

A missionary once shared that in a remote village, the church had only a small piece of bread and one cup. Yet the reverence with which they celebrated communion brought many to tears. It wasn’t the elements that mattered—it was their heart posture. Contrast this with how we can rush through the Lord’s Table without thought. Reverence is not about ritual—it’s about remembering Jesus rightly.

3. Modern Analogy: Social Media vs. Biblical Tradition

In today’s world, people reject tradition for the sake of “authenticity.” But biblical tradition, when rooted in Scripture, anchors us in truth. Just as algorithms change weekly, people chase trends—but God’s design for worship doesn’t shift. It is timeless and trustworthy.

Application for Today’s Christian

1 Corinthians 11 calls believers to a lifestyle of reverence, order, and remembrance. Its lessons are not just for Sunday worship but for daily Christian living. Here are several practical applications in three key areas:

1. Discipleship: Following Christ in Word and Conduct (v. 1)

Practice: Imitate Christ daily—seek His character in your thoughts, speech, and relationships.
Mentorship: Encourage spiritual maturity by being an example for others (2 Timothy 2:2). Are you someone a younger believer can follow?

2. Stewardship of Worship: Honoring God’s Design (vv. 2–16)

Practice: Respect the God-given roles and responsibilities in the church and home. Uphold biblical manhood and womanhood as a testimony to God’s good creation.
Community: Teach others why order in worship matters—not to suppress but to glorify God.

3. Faith and Reverence in the Lord’s Supper (vv. 17–34)

Personal Holiness: Before partaking of communion, practice regular self-examination and confession of sin (Psalm 139:23-24).
Unity and Forgiveness: Reconcile with fellow believers before approaching the Lord’s Table (Matthew 5:23-24).
Remembrance: Daily reflect on the cross—read gospel accounts, memorize Christ’s words, and live in gratitude.

Connection to God’s Love

Though Paul issues rebuke and correction in this chapter, it is grounded in God’s deep love for His people:

1. Love Through Design (vv. 3–16)

God’s creation of male and female with distinct roles was an act of love, not oppression. His design brings order, beauty, and harmony.
Just as a parent structures a household for the child’s good, God structures worship for the church’s flourishing.

2. Love Through the Cross (vv. 23–26)

The Lord’s Supper is the ultimate declaration of love: “This is My body… This is My blood.”
Christ’s willingness to be broken and poured out demonstrates the cost of redemption and the depth of God’s care (John 3:16).

3. Love Through Discipline (vv. 27–32)

Even God’s judgment on the Corinthians (some became ill, others died) was an act of mercy. “When we are judged… we are being disciplined so that we will not be condemned with the world” (v. 32).
Like a loving Father, God disciplines not to destroy, but to restore His children (Hebrews 12:6).

Broader Biblical Themes

1 Corinthians 11 is deeply rooted in and consistent with the grand narrative of Scripture. It connects to multiple themes:

1. Creation

Paul appeals directly to Genesis 1-2 to establish headship, gender roles, and divine order.
The male-female relationship, the image of God, and the glory of creation are central (vv. 7–9).
Theme: God’s good design is foundational to human flourishing and worship.

2. Covenant

The Lord’s Supper is rooted in the new covenant established by Christ’s blood (v. 25).
This covenant replaces the old system of sacrifices with Christ’s once-for-all atonement (Hebrews 9:15).
Theme: God invites us into relationship through covenant, marked by mercy, obedience, and remembrance.

3. Redemption

The chapter highlights the sacrificial death of Christ and its ongoing proclamation (v. 26).
Redemption isn’t a one-time truth but a living reality we remember and rejoice in until Jesus returns.
Theme: Every communion service retells the gospel story—sin, sacrifice, substitution, and salvation.

4. Holiness and Judgment

God’s call to examine ourselves reflects His demand for a holy people.
Like Israel in the wilderness, the Corinthians are reminded that God takes worship seriously.
Theme: Holiness is not optional; it is the fruit of grace.

Reflection Questions

Use these questions for personal study, discipleship groups, or post-sermon discussion to foster deeper understanding and life transformation:

Section 1: Following Christ and Biblical Leadership (vv. 1–2)

Who are the people you follow as spiritual examples? Are they following Christ?
Are there areas in your life where your actions don’t reflect Jesus’ character?
How seriously do you take the traditions and teachings passed down in Scripture?

Section 2: Worship and God’s Created Order (vv. 3–16)

How do you respond to the idea that God has designed different roles for men and women in the church and home?
What does your heart posture say about your willingness to submit to God’s design, even when it’s countercultural?
In what ways can you honor God in how you worship, both publicly and privately?

Section 3: The Lord’s Supper and Remembrance (vv. 17–26)

What does the Lord’s Supper mean to you personally? Do you approach it with reverence?
Do you regularly reflect on Christ’s death and resurrection in your daily walk with God?
How can you prepare your heart more intentionally before participating in communion?

Section 4: Self-Examination and Church Unity (vv. 27–34)

When was the last time you genuinely examined your heart before the Lord?
Are there any broken relationships within the body of Christ that need to be made right?
How do you respond to the idea that God disciplines those He loves? Have you seen this in your own life?

General Reflection

How does this chapter challenge your view of worship, leadership, or community life?
In what ways do you sense God calling you to grow in reverence, humility, or unity?
How will your understanding of 1 Corinthians 11 change the way you live and lead in your church?