New Testament in a Year

1 Corinthians 11:1-16
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Okay, I think it is important to keep in mind that these writings in First Corinthians 11 were directed to the church in Corinth.  And Paul is basically saying in this chapter that we need to be sensitive to the culture we are in.  Meaning, in 1st century Corinth men with long hair typically were prostitutes in pagan temples, so Paul says in this chapter it’s a disgrace for a man to have long hair.  Which it was in the culture and time of Corinth when this was written.  Same thing with women with short hair at this culture and time in Corinth – it was a sign of prostitution.  So, Paul says keep it long.  I know it can seem a bit tricky to figure out when the Bible should be taken literally word for word and when we need to consider context.  I would say that generally speaking, we need to consider context – context of one verse to the verse before and after.  Context to the chapter.   Context to the book.  Context to the Bible.  And context to the time and place that a particular book was written.  However, don’t let context mislead you into thinking that the Bible is not God’s Holy Word – that the Bible is not Truth.  For it is both.  The Bible is the Word of God.  The Bible is Truth.  And Paul’s words in today’s chapter essentially get at the Truth that believers should look and behave in ways that are honorable within their own culture – so that they (and we) will be believable witnesses for Jesus Christ.

I love verses 11 & 12 in today’s readings – “But in relationships among the Lord’s people, women are not independent of men, and men are not independent of women. For although the first woman came from man, all men have been born from women ever since, and everything comes from God.”  It’s pretty hard to argue with this.  We are all dependent upon each other.  The Body of Christ is a community of believers.  Men and women are not independent.  We are dependent and interdependent on each other.  And things do not come from men or women – everything comes from God.

Bible.org’s commentary on today’s readings in First Corinthians titled “Headship and Head Coverings” is at this link.

Worship Video: Today’s readings reminds me of Blessing Offur’s beautiful song “Brighter Days:”

Do you need some brighter days? Click here for Brightness!

Comments from You:  What verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings?  Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!

God bless,
Mike

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