1 Corinthians 11:16 – “If anyone wants to be contentious about this, we have no other practice—nor do the churches of God.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul concludes his discussion on head coverings and proper conduct in worship by addressing those who might argue against what he has taught. He essentially says, “If someone wants to argue about this, there is no other practice in the churches of God.”

Paul is emphasizing that the teaching on head coverings and gender distinctions in worship is not just his personal opinion, nor is it a cultural practice unique to Corinth. It was the standard practice in all the early Christian churches.

By saying “we have no other practice”, Paul makes it clear that this teaching was not optional or subject to personal preference. It was a widely accepted norm among believers at that time, meant to reflect God’s order in creation and in the church.

This verse also warns against unnecessary division. Paul recognizes that some people might want to challenge this teaching, but he insists that this is the way things are done in all the churches, reinforcing unity and consistency in worship practices.

Historical Context

In the Greco-Roman world, cultural expectations about gender roles and modesty were well established. While some women in Corinth may have been influenced by local customs that encouraged them to disregard head coverings, Paul reminds them that Christian worship follows God’s order, not cultural trends.

This teaching was not just for the Corinthians. The phrase “nor do the churches of God” indicates that this was a universal practice among the early Christian communities. Paul wanted to ensure that the Corinthians were aligned with the broader church and not adopting customs that would cause division or confusion.

At the time, unity in worship was important. Since Christianity was still growing and defining itself in contrast to both Judaism and pagan religions, it was essential that churches followed consistent practices that honored God’s design and did not create unnecessary controversies.

Theological Implications

1. God’s Order Is Not Subject to Personal Opinion – Paul makes it clear that the structure he describes is not just a local tradition but a universal standard for worship.
2. Unity in Worship Is Important – The church should not be divided over issues that have already been established by biblical teaching.
3. Respect for Authority and Tradition – Paul encourages believers to follow the traditions that reflect God’s design rather than seeking to change them for personal or cultural reasons.
4. The Church Should Reflect God’s Design, Not Cultural Trends – While customs may change, the biblical principles of male and female roles in worship remain relevant.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s use of “contentious” (philoneikos in Greek) suggests that some people were actively resisting or debating this teaching. He addresses this directly by saying that there is no alternate practice in the churches.

This verse acts as a firm conclusion to his argument. After explaining the theological basis for head coverings (authority, creation, and natural distinctions), he ends with a strong statement that this is how things are done in all Christian churches.

Paul also speaks with apostolic authority, showing that this is not a topic open for debate. By referencing “the churches of God,” he appeals to the unity of the early church in following this practice.

Biblical Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 14:33 – “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” (Paul emphasizes order and unity in all churches.)
• 2 Thessalonians 2:15 – “So then, brothers and sisters, stand firm and hold fast to the teachings we passed on to you, whether by word of mouth or by letter.” (The church is to follow apostolic teachings.)
• Titus 1:9 – “He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” (Paul expects church leaders to maintain correct teaching.)
• Ephesians 4:3-4 – “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called.” (The church should be united in doctrine and practice.)
• 1 Corinthians 1:10 – “I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree with one another in what you say and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be perfectly united in mind and thought.” (Paul strongly encourages unity in the church.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Although head coverings are no longer a common issue in most churches today, the principle behind Paul’s teaching still applies. Christians today should:

1. Respect Biblical Traditions – While some practices change with culture, core biblical teachings should be upheld, especially when they relate to God’s design for men and women.
2. Promote Unity in the Church – Just as Paul urged the Corinthians to follow the common practice of the churches, modern believers should strive for unity in worship and doctrine.
3. Reject a Contentious Spirit – Paul warns against arguing over established teachings. While there is room for discussion on many topics, Christians should be careful not to cause unnecessary division.
4. Submit to God’s Order Rather Than Cultural Pressures – Society often challenges biblical principles on gender, authority, and worship, but Christians should seek to follow God’s design rather than modern trends.

This verse encourages believers to follow biblical principles with humility and a willingness to submit to God’s wisdom rather than personal opinions.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is reflected in how He establishes order, unity, and peace in His church. He does not create confusion or division but provides clear guidance on how worship should be conducted.

God’s love is also shown in how He calls His people to live in harmony. By instructing the Corinthians to follow the same practices as the other churches, Paul is encouraging unity, which reflects God’s desire for His people to be one body in Christ.

Furthermore, God’s love is evident in how He cares about the details of worship. He is not indifferent to how His people approach Him but provides guidance so they can honor Him in the best way.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

• Jesus Prayed for Unity in the Church – In John 17:20-21, Jesus prayed that His followers would be one, just as He and the Father are one. Paul’s teaching about following a common practice reflects this desire for unity.
• Christ Respected Authority and Order – Jesus submitted to the Father’s will (John 6:38) and lived in obedience, setting an example for His followers to honor God’s design.
• Jesus Warned Against Division – In Mark 3:25, Jesus said, “If a house is divided against itself, that house cannot stand.” Paul’s call to follow the same practice as the other churches aligns with Christ’s teaching on unity.

Ultimately, Paul’s instruction here is an extension of Christ’s mission—to build a unified body of believers who follow God’s order and reflect His glory.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think Paul emphasizes unity in worship practices across all churches?
2. How can Christians today apply the principle of avoiding unnecessary disputes over established biblical teachings?
3. What does this verse teach about respecting church traditions and biblical authority?
4. In what ways can believers promote unity in their local churches today?
5. How does this verse challenge the modern tendency to prioritize personal opinions over biblical instruction?

This verse is a powerful reminder that God’s church is meant to be unified, orderly, and focused on His design, rather than divided over personal preferences. While specific practices may change, the principle of respecting biblical teaching and maintaining unity in worship remains as important today as it was in Paul’s time.