Analysis of I Corinthians 11:27-34

1. Paul gives further instructions and warnings
2. The "self-examination" Paul calls for may be more unsettling than we first imagined. Let's see:

1. PAUL INSTRUCTS AND WARNS CONCERNING THE OBSERVANCE OF THE SUPPER, vv. 27-32
   1. He warns against partaking in an "unworthy manner," v. 27
      1. They showed a misconception, or at least a defective conception, of the Lord's Supper, v. 20
      2. Many lacked regard for their brothers and sisters, v. 21
      3. These two outstanding defects were reflected in their segregations, insensitivity, selfishness and drunkenness
   2. Their "unworthy manner" extended vertically and horizontally
      1. They were out of favor with God, v. 22
      2. They were creating havoc, divisions, and ill-will within the (one) body of Christ, v. 21
   3. This called for an individual, rigid, self-examination, v. 28
      1. Their "state of remembrance" was scandalous
      2. Their unworthy manner of partaking applied not only to the moment but to the life and attitudes of the partakers
   4. They were to discern the body (soma), v. 29
      1. This refers to the body of Jesus offered on the cross, and its significance for us
      2. His body is not a lifeless corpse; it is a glorious body as reflected in the word GOSPEL
      3. The discerning of the body may also include one's proper view of his fellow partakers, the church, Col. 1:18
         1. The Corinthians were obviously derelict in this regard
         2. This disgraceful outward behavior was evidence of a deeper malady
         3. This worldly lifestyle caused sickness and death, v. 30

2. PAUL OFFERS PRACTICAL ADVICE FOR DEVELOPING SPIRITUAL LIVES, vv. 33-34
   1. They are to "wait for" one another, v. 33
      1. They must be considerate of all their brothers and sisters
      2. The agape feast held in conjunction with the Lord's Supper must be a true charity fellowship
   2. If all of the above teachings are not followed, they will be condemned, v. 34
   3. This picture of an ancient congregation is disquieting
   4. However, if properly observed, the Lord's Supper is glorious and beautiful

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