1 Corinthians 11:22 – “Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in? Or do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing? What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter!”

Extended Explanation of the Verse

Paul continues his strong rebuke of the Corinthian church in this verse. He is addressing their selfish and dishonorable behavior during the Lord’s Supper. Instead of coming together in unity to remember Christ’s sacrifice, some were turning the gathering into a feast for themselves while ignoring the needs of others.

Paul’s question, “Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in?” is meant to confront them with the reality of their actions. The Lord’s Supper was never meant to be treated like a personal meal for indulgence—it was a sacred time of worship and unity. If they wanted to satisfy their hunger and personal cravings, they could do that at home.

The more serious issue is in the next question: “Do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing?” This exposes the heart of the problem. The wealthier members of the church were not only being inconsiderate, but they were actually shaming poorer believers. Instead of showing love and generosity, they were treating their brothers and sisters in Christ as less important.

Paul is outraged by this behavior. His rhetorical questions build up to a forceful conclusion: “What shall I say to you? Shall I praise you? Certainly not in this matter!” There is nothing commendable about their actions. Instead of honoring God, they were dishonoring both Him and their fellow believers.

Historical Context

The church in Corinth met in homes, and meals were often shared as part of their worship gatherings. The Lord’s Supper was not just a small ritual—it was often part of a larger communal meal, similar to what was called an “agape feast” (a love feast).

In Roman culture, social divisions were deeply ingrained. Wealthy hosts typically ate first, enjoying the best food and drink, while lower-class guests received whatever was left. Sadly, this cultural practice had crept into the church, corrupting the very purpose of the Lord’s Supper.

In Corinth, some wealthier believers were bringing plenty of food for themselves while others had little or nothing. The church, which was supposed to be a place of equality and love, had become a place of selfishness and exclusion. Paul’s words remind them that such behavior is completely unacceptable in God’s house.

Theological Implications

1. The Church Is a Family – God’s people are meant to care for and respect one another, not treat some as inferior.
2. True Worship Requires Love and Unity – Self-centered worship is not pleasing to God.
3. The Lord’s Supper Is Sacred – It is not just a meal, but a time to honor Christ and His sacrifice.
4. God Opposes Pride and Favoritism – He calls His people to humility and love, not division and selfishness.

Paul is making it clear: the way believers treat each other in worship matters to God. The Lord’s Supper is not just about remembering Christ—it is also about reflecting His love in the way believers treat one another.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s tone in this verse is strong and confrontational. His rhetorical questions serve to emphasize the seriousness of the issue.

• “Don’t you have homes to eat and drink in?” – This question highlights that the Lord’s Supper is not about personal satisfaction but about worship and unity.
• “Do you despise the church of God by humiliating those who have nothing?” – This is the heart of the matter. Their actions were not just rude; they were an insult to God’s people.
• “Shall I praise you? Certainly not!” – Paul makes it clear that their behavior is unacceptable and cannot be excused.

This passage is structured to build intensity, leading up to Paul’s clear condemnation of their actions.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• James 2:1-6 – God condemns favoritism in the church and calls believers to treat one another with love and respect.
• Galatians 3:28 – In Christ, social divisions should not exist; all are one in Him.
• Acts 2:42-47 – The early believers shared all they had, making sure no one was in need.
• Matthew 25:40 – Jesus teaches that how we treat others reflects our love for Him.
• Romans 12:10 – Christians are called to honor one another above themselves.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse is a reminder that worship is not just about personal experience—it is about how believers treat one another in the presence of God.

Today, Christians may not struggle with sharing meals in the same way, but selfishness, pride, and exclusion can still creep into church life. Some modern applications of this verse include:

• Avoiding favoritism in the church, whether based on wealth, status, or personal preferences.
• Ensuring that all believers feel welcome and valued in worship.
• Examining whether our worship is focused on Christ or on personal satisfaction.
• Being mindful of how our actions impact fellow believers.

The Lord’s Supper is a time to remember Christ’s sacrifice, and that remembrance should lead to humility, gratitude, and love for one another.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is for all His people, regardless of their background, wealth, or status. He does not favor one person over another, and He expects His followers to show the same love to one another.

This verse highlights that God’s love is not just about individual salvation—it is about creating a community that reflects His character. A loving God calls His people to love one another. When believers fail to do so, they misrepresent who He is.

God’s heart is always for the outcast, the forgotten, and the overlooked. When believers show love and honor to one another, they reflect the love of God to the world.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself set the example of humility and love:

• John 13:12-17 – Jesus washed the disciples’ feet, teaching them to serve one another.
• Luke 22:19-20 – Jesus established the Lord’s Supper, calling believers to remember His sacrifice.
• Mark 10:45 – Jesus came not to be served, but to serve and give His life for others.
• Philippians 2:5-8 – Jesus humbled Himself and became a servant, even to the point of death.

Paul’s rebuke to the Corinthians reminds them that following Christ means imitating His humility and love. The Lord’s Supper should reflect that—not selfish indulgence, but selfless devotion to Christ and to one another.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Do you approach worship with a heart of humility and love, or do personal concerns take priority?
2. Are there ways favoritism or division appear in your church today? How can they be addressed?
3. How does your participation in the Lord’s Supper reflect Christ’s love and sacrifice?
4. In what ways can you be more mindful of others in your church community?
5. How can your church better reflect the unity and love that Jesus desires?

Paul’s words serve as a strong reminder that worship is not just about personal devotion—it is about how believers treat one another in the presence of God. True worship reflects Christ’s love, and that love should be evident in the church.