New Testament
1 Corinthians 11:20
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
When you come together as a community, the way you are sharing food is missing the true essence of what the Lord's Supper is meant to be.
- Author
- Paul the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 55
- Genre
- Letter (epistle)
- Original Audience
- The church in Corinth
When you gather together, what you're eating is not really the Lord's Supper.
When ye come together therefore into one place, this is not to eat the Lord’s supper.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
When you come together as a community, the way you are sharing food is missing the true essence of what the Lord's Supper is meant to be. Instead of a sacred meal that brings unity and remembrance, it has become just another meal. This gathering should be a time of reflection and connection with each other and with God. However, it seems that the focus has shifted away from honoring the significance of this moment. People are treating it casually, forgetting its purpose. The Lord's Supper is about more than just eating; it’s about celebrating the love and sacrifice of Jesus. It’s a time to remember what He did for us and to strengthen our bonds with one another. When we lose sight of this, we miss out on the deeper meaning and the community spirit that should be present. Let’s strive to restore the true meaning of this gathering, making it a time of genuine connection and reverence for what it represents in our faith journey. This is a call to reflect on our intentions.
Related Bible verses
How to apply 1 Corinthians 11:20 to your life
When you gather with others, consider the purpose of your time together. Are you truly connecting and honoring the significance of your shared moments? Make an effort to create an atmosphere of respect and reflection, especially during meaningful traditions. This can deepen your relationships and enrich your experiences together. Remember, it’s about more than just the food or the event itself; it’s about the connections you build.
Curated for this public verse page. 1 Corinthians Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does 1 Corinthians 11:20 mean by 'not really the Lord's Supper'?
In 1 Corinthians 11:20, Paul is addressing the Corinthians about their gatherings for the Lord's Supper. He points out that their approach to this sacred meal has become casual and disconnected from its true purpose. Instead of a meaningful celebration of Jesus' sacrifice, it has turned into just another meal, lacking the reverence and unity that should characterize such an important event in the Christian faith.
How can we honor the Lord's Supper in our gatherings?
To honor the Lord's Supper, focus on creating a respectful atmosphere that emphasizes reflection and connection. Before sharing the meal, take time to remember the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and what it means for your community. Encourage open discussions about faith and gratitude, and ensure that everyone feels included and valued. This approach can help restore the sacredness of the gathering and strengthen your bonds with one another.
Why is community important during the Lord's Supper?
Community is vital during the Lord's Supper because it embodies the unity and love that Jesus taught. Sharing this meal together reinforces the bonds among believers and reminds everyone of their shared faith and purpose. It’s a time to support one another, reflect on collective experiences, and celebrate the grace of God. When done with intention, it fosters a deeper sense of belonging and strengthens the church as a whole.
What should we reflect on during the Lord's Supper?
During the Lord's Supper, reflect on the significance of Jesus' sacrifice, the love He showed, and the forgiveness He offers. Consider your personal relationship with God and how it impacts your relationships with others. It's also a time to examine your heart, seek reconciliation where needed, and express gratitude for the community of believers. This reflection can deepen your faith and enhance the communal experience.
The Book of 1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians 1: Greeting, Thanksgiving, and Divisions
Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, address the church of God at Corinth. He speaks to those sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be saints, along with all who call on the name of Jesus Christ. He thanks God for the grace given to them and says they are enriched in speech and knowledge, lacking no spiritual gift as they wait for the coming of the Lord.
Unlock the full 1 Corinthians summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of 1 Corinthians — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 16 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of 1 Corinthians summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.