1 Corinthians 11:17

French (La Sainte Bible par Louis Segond 1910)

En donnant cet avertissement, ce que je ne loue point, c'est que vous vous assemblez, non pour devenir meilleurs, mais pour devenir pires.

What Does This Mean?

In this verse from 1 Corinthians, Paul is speaking and he expresses disappointment because when the church members meet together, it does not improve things but makes them worse instead.

Explained for Children

Imagine if every time you had a playdate with your friends, instead of having fun and getting along better, you ended up fighting more. That's how Paul feels about the church meetings; they should be making people happier and closer together, but instead, they're causing trouble.

Historical Background

The letter was written by Paul around 53-54 AD to the Christian community in Corinth. The Corinthians were struggling with a variety of issues including divisions within their community. This verse reflects Paul's concern over the negative outcomes of their gatherings.

Living It Out Today

A modern scenario could be a workplace where team meetings are meant to foster collaboration and improve work, but instead lead to conflicts and reduced productivity. Just like in Corinth, it's important for leaders and members alike to ensure that gatherings serve their intended purpose positively.

Topics

• church gatherings
• community
• conflict resolution
• leadership
• love
• disunity

Related Verses

• Ephesians 4:29
• 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
• John 13:35
• Proverbs 10:12
• Romans 14:19

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Paul's main concern when he wrote this?

Paul was concerned about the disunity and conflicts among the Christians in Corinth, which were not improving but worsening during their gatherings.

How can communities ensure their meetings are beneficial?

Communities should ensure that all members participate constructively, listen to each other's perspectives, and aim for mutual understanding and growth.

What does this verse teach about church leadership?

Leadership in the church must be focused on promoting unity, ensuring meetings are productive, and addressing issues that might lead to conflicts or disunity among members.

How can we apply Paul's message today in our community settings?

By fostering an environment of respect, listening actively to each other, resolving conflicts constructively, and ensuring gatherings are meaningful and beneficial for all participants.