Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 11 - Verse 21

The verse "For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken" from 1 Corinthians 11:21 highlights the issue of inequality and selfishness within the early Christian community. The context of this verse is within Paul's letter to the Corinthians, where he is addressing the behavior of the congregation during their communal meals, known as Agape feasts. These meals were meant to symbolize the unity and fellowship among believers, but instead, Paul criticizes the Corinthians for their lack of consideration for others. Some members were eating their fill while others went hungry, and some even became drunk while others had nothing to eat. This verse serves as a reminder to prioritize the needs of others above our own desires and to practice love and empathy in all interactions, especially within the community of believers. It underscores the importance of sharing resources, showing compassion, and striving for equality in all aspects of life.

In this verse, the apostle Paul addresses a situation in the Corinthian church where members were behaving selfishly during the communal meals, specifically the Lord's Supper. The phrase "For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper" indicates that some were consuming their food without regard for others, not waiting to share in the meal together. This lack of consideration led to disparities within the congregation, with some going hungry while others indulged to the point of drunkenness. The theological interpretation here emphasizes the importance of unity and love within the body of believers. By prioritizing their own needs and desires over the well-being of their fellow Christians, the Corinthians were failing to demonstrate the sacrificial love that should characterize followers of Christ. Paul's admonition serves as a reminder for believers to act with humility, putting others before themselves, and to partake in the Lord's Supper with reverence and unity.