1 Corinthians 11:19 – “No doubt there have to be differences among you to show which of you have God’s approval.”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

In this verse, Paul continues his discussion about divisions within the church in Corinth. He has just mentioned in the previous verse (1 Corinthians 11:18) that there are factions among them, and now he adds that these differences are, in some way, expected. Paul is not saying that divisions are good, but rather that they reveal something important—who truly belongs to God.

The phrase “to show which of you have God’s approval” suggests that, in times of division and conflict, the faithfulness of true believers becomes evident. When there is controversy or disagreement, those who are truly committed to God and His truth will stand firm in their faith and actions. While division in the church is harmful, God can use it to refine and test His people.

Paul is not encouraging division, but he acknowledges that when it happens, it can reveal the sincerity of people’s faith. Those who seek personal gain or act out of pride will be exposed, while those who remain faithful to God’s ways will be recognized as genuine followers of Christ.

Historical Context

The church in Corinth was dealing with major issues related to unity. Wealthy believers were separating themselves from poorer believers during meals, including the Lord’s Supper. Some were indulging in excess while others were left with nothing. These social divisions reflected the culture of the time, where class distinctions were deeply ingrained.

Paul was writing in a world where honor and status were highly valued. People often sought approval from others to gain influence and recognition. In contrast, Paul emphasizes that the only approval that truly matters is God’s. The conflicts in the church, while regrettable, served as a test to reveal who was genuinely following Christ’s teachings and who was driven by selfish motives.

Theological Implications

This verse points to an important truth: God allows trials, disagreements, and challenges within the church to reveal the faithfulness of His people.

1. God’s Sovereignty Over Division – While division itself is not good, God can use it for His purposes. Throughout history, difficult situations have separated those who truly follow God from those who do not.
2. True Faith Will Be Tested – Times of disagreement and difficulty often reveal who is genuinely committed to God. Jesus Himself said that His followers would be known by their fruit (Matthew 7:16).
3. Approval Comes From God, Not People – Many in Corinth were likely seeking approval from others, but Paul reminds them that it is God’s approval that ultimately matters.

This verse challenges believers to examine whether their actions and attitudes reflect a heart that is truly seeking after God or one that is driven by personal ambition and pride.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording here is both direct and thought-provoking. The phrase “there have to be differences” is not a command but an observation. He is acknowledging a reality rather than endorsing division.

The Greek word for “differences” (hairesis) is where we get the word “heresy.” It originally meant a group or faction but later came to refer to false teaching. Paul’s use of this term suggests that divisions in the church were not just about personal disagreements but also about competing beliefs and practices.

The phrase “to show which of you have God’s approval” implies a refining process. Just as gold is tested in fire, believers are tested through conflict. Those who remain faithful to God’s ways demonstrate that they have His approval.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 7:16-20 – True believers are recognized by the fruit they bear.
• James 1:2-4 – Trials test faith and develop perseverance.
• 1 Peter 1:6-7 – Faith is refined like gold through trials.
• 2 Timothy 2:15 – Christians should seek to be approved by God, rightly handling His Word.
• John 15:18-19 – The world’s opposition to believers is a sign of true discipleship.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a reminder that not everyone who claims to follow Christ is truly committed to Him. Disagreements and conflicts within the church are unfortunate but can serve a purpose. They reveal who is genuinely seeking to follow God’s Word and who is following their own desires.

For modern Christians, this means:

1. Staying faithful to God’s truth even when disagreements arise.
2. Recognizing that trials can strengthen faith and reveal true character.
3. Seeking God’s approval rather than the approval of people.
4. Responding to conflict with humility and a desire for unity, rather than pride or self-interest.

In today’s world, churches may face divisions over doctrine, leadership, or cultural issues. While unity should always be pursued, when differences arise, Christians should remain steadfast in biblical truth and let their faithfulness be a testimony to others.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is not about avoiding all conflict but about refining His people so they grow in faith and holiness. Just as a loving father disciplines his children for their good (Hebrews 12:6), God allows challenges in the church to strengthen and purify His people.

This verse reminds us that God is always at work, even in difficult situations. He does not delight in division, but He uses it to separate genuine believers from those who are only following Him for selfish reasons. His love is shown in His desire for His people to be faithful and pure.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself experienced division among His followers. Some followed Him sincerely, while others were only interested in the benefits He provided. Judas Iscariot, for example, was among the disciples but did not truly have faith in Christ. In the end, his betrayal revealed the difference between a true disciple and a false one.

• Matthew 13:24-30 (Parable of the Weeds) – Jesus teaches that true and false believers will grow together, but God will eventually separate them.
• John 6:66-69 – Some disciples abandoned Jesus, while others remained faithful.
• Luke 22:31-32 – Jesus tells Peter that his faith will be tested but that He has prayed for him.

This verse ultimately points to the reality that following Christ requires endurance and commitment. True believers will remain steadfast even when times of difficulty or division arise.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Have you ever experienced division in a church? How did it impact your faith?
2. What are some ways to handle disagreements in a godly and loving manner?
3. How can you ensure that you are seeking God’s approval rather than the approval of people?
4. When conflicts arise in your Christian community, do they strengthen or weaken your faith? Why?
5. How does this verse challenge you to be more faithful to God’s truth?

This verse is a sobering reminder that not all who claim to follow Christ are truly committed to Him. But for those who remain faithful, God’s approval is what ultimately matters. In the end, true believers will be revealed—not by how popular they are, but by their steadfast faithfulness to Jesus and His teachings.