An Exegetical Study of First Corinthians 11 17-32

Abstract

Pastor Dennis Belter presents a detailed exegetical analysis of 1 Corinthians 11:17–32, focusing on the Apostle Paul’s teaching regarding abuses of the Lord’s Supper in the Corinthian congregation. The study divides the passage into three sections: the problem (vv. 17–22), the principle (vv. 23–26), and the application (vv. 27–32). Belter’s primary focus is on the application section, examining the Greek text to highlight the seriousness of unworthy reception of the Sacrament. He explains key terms such as “unworthily,” “guilty,” “judgment,” and “discernment,” and argues that Paul teaches real bodily presence in the Supper. Belter concludes that some Corinthians suffered physical illness and even death as divine discipline for their careless participation. Drawing on Luther’s writings and other commentators, Belter emphasizes the pastoral responsibility to properly instruct communicants and warns against careless administration of the Sacrament. He affirms that unworthy reception is not an unforgivable sin and encourages faithful self-examination and reverent participation. —Generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4)