1 Corinthians 11:33
What does 1 Corinthians 11:33 mean?
A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 11:33 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What 1 Corinthians 11:33 means
Paul applies the teaching practically: when the church comes together to eat, they are to wait for one another. This simple discipline counters selfish haste and honors the unity of the body. Waiting makes room for love to govern the meal, ensuring that all can participate with dignity. It reflects a heart that discerns the body and seeks others’ good. By such habits, the Supper regains its character as a shared proclamation of Christ’s death, not a scramble for private satisfaction. Order and patience safeguard the holy purpose of the gathering.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, wait one for another.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, tarry one for another.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Wherefore, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, wait one for another.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949So then, my brothers, when you come together to the holy meal of the Lord, let there be waiting for one another.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862so then, my brethren, coming together to eat, for one another wait ye;
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752Wherefore, my brethren, when you come together to eat, wait for one another.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890So that, my brethren, when ye come together to eat, wait for one another.
Context
This instruction translates the theology and warnings into a concrete communal practice. It addresses directly the problem described in verse 21. One more practical safeguard follows in verse 34, separating ordinary hunger from the sacred meal. Together, these directives aim to restore the Lord’s Supper to its proper meaning and prevent the recurrence of abuses that brought discipline.
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