1 Corinthians 11:18

Authorized King James Version

For first of all, when ye come together in the church, I hear that there be divisions among you; and I partly believe it.

Word-by-Word Analysis

πρῶτον

G4412

first of all

firstly (in time, place, order, or importance)

μὲν

G3303

properly, indicative of affirmation or concession (in fact); usually followed by a contrasted clause with g1161 (this one, the former, etc.)

γὰρ

G1063

For

properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)

συνερχομένων

G4905

come together

to convene, depart in company with, associate with, or (specially), cohabit (conjugally)

ὑμῶν

G5216

when ye

of (from or concerning) you

ἐν

G1722

among

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τῇ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

ἐκκλησίᾳ

G1577

the church

a calling out, i.e., (concretely) a popular meeting, especially a religious congregation (jewish synagogue, or christian community of members on earth

ἀκούω

G191

I hear

to hear (in various senses)

#10

σχίσματα

G4978

divisions

a split or gap ("schism"), literally or figuratively

#11

ἐν

G1722

among

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

#12

ὑμῖν

G5213

you

to (with or by) you

#13

ὑπάρχειν

G5225

that there be

to begin under (quietly), i.e., come into existence (be present or at hand); expletively, to exist (as copula or subordinate to an adjective, particip

#14

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#15

μέρος

G3313

I partly

a division or share (literally or figuratively, in a wide application)

#16

τι

G5100

some or any person or object

#17

πιστεύω

G4100

believe

to have faith (in, upon, or with respect to, a person or thing), i.e., credit; by implication, to entrust (especially one's spiritual well-being to ch

Analysis

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this passage highlights salvation through universal language and absolute statements. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of 1 Corinthians.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of the literary conventions and historical circumstances of biblical literature shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of 1 Corinthians Understanding the ancient worldview that shaped the author's theological expression helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 11 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
How does the salvation theme in this verse connect to the overarching narrative of Scripture, and what does this reveal about God's character and purposes?
In what ways does this verse's emphasis on divine revelation address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?

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