1 Corinthians 11:21

Authorized King James Version

For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken.

Word-by-Word Analysis

ἕκαστος

G1538

every one

each or every

γὰρ

G1063

For

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

τὸ

G3588

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

ἴδιον

G2398

other his own

pertaining to self, i.e., one's own; by implication, private or separate

δεῖπνον

G1173

supper

dinner, i.e., the chief meal (usually in the evening)

προλαμβάνει

G4301

taketh before

to take in advance, i.e., (literally) eat before others have an opportunity; (figuratively) to anticipate, surprise

ἐν

G1722

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

τῷ

G3588

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

φαγεῖν

G5315

eating

to eat (literally or figuratively)

#10

καὶ

G2532

and

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

#11

ὃς

G3739

another

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#12

μὲν

G3303

one

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

#13

πεινᾷ

G3983

is hungry

to famish (absolutely or comparatively); figuratively, to crave

#14

ὃς

G3739

another

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

#15

δὲ

G1161

and

but, and, etc

#16

μεθύει

G3184

is drunken

to drink to intoxication, i.e., get drunk

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 1 Corinthians. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to pastoral letter addressing practical Christian living issues, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

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?
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?
What systematic theological implications arise from this verse's treatment of salvation, and how does it contribute to a biblical theology of soteriology and the doctrine of salvation?

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