In chapter 11 Paul deals with the disorders in the
public assembly at Corinth. As we read this chapter,
certain problems are evident. Meetings were disorderly
and unscriptural. Women were taking the lead from men,
and various members were competing for leadership and
the opportunity to speak. Generally speaking, there was
confusion on every hand and the church was projecting a
poor testimony before the lost.

Chapter 11 also deals directly with disorder at
the Lord’s Supper. The cause of this disorder was the
lack of subordination by women, divisions in the church,
and selfish motives by Christians. In verses 23-30 we
see the consequences of the disorders. The people were
judged instead of blessed, and because they served a
faithful and just God, they were chastised. In verses
31-34 we see a correction of these disorders. The people
must judge themselves; they must have mutual love for
one another; and they must have spiritual discernment.
Verses 23-31 give the order and meaning of the Lord’s
Supper. One should never partake of the Lord’s Supper
until he has examined himself and confessed all known
sin. If he drinks of the cup and eats of the bread
unworthily, he shall be guilty of the body and blood of
the Lord. It is a Christian’s duty to judge himself, so
he will not be judged (verse 31).

Chapter 12 begins with the discussion of
spiritual gifts. In this chapter Paul explains the work
of the Spirit in the church as He bestows spiritual
gifts upon various members.

Chapter 13 is commonly referred to as the love
chapter. Paul emphasizes the fruit of the Spirit
(Galatians 5:22,23) and says they are more important
than the miraculous gifts of the Spirit. When churches
strive for miraculous experiences, rather than Christian
holiness and character, many times they will find
division, confusion and carnality cropping up among
them. The word charity means love in action. In verses
4-7 we are shown that love is effectual; patient and
kind; it never harbors jealousy; is not boastful or
proud; not rude or self-seeking; it never harbors evil
thoughts; and it gives victory. Finally, in verses 8-13,
we are shown that love is eternal. Verse 13 gives us a
comparison of faith, hope, and love. They abide forever,
and charity is the greatest. Why? Because God Himself is
love.