“If we would judge
ourselves, we would not be judged.” (v.31)
How often do we really take a good look at ourselves? I’m
not talking about physically, for we do that constantly, but introspectively. Self-evaluation
is what the apostle Paul calls for here in 1 Corinthians 11. Believers in
Christ need to examine themselves, he said, to avoid being disciplined by the
Lord.
The Corinthian church was especially in need of this. They
were quarreling among themselves (v.18), going through the motions of
celebrating the Lord’s Supper (v.20) and some were even drunk (v.21). So Paul
said, in effect, “Look at yourselves. You’re a mess! If you don’t get your
lives straightened out, the Lord will have to do it for you.”
This warning, however, also carries a message of hope. If we
judge ourselves and repent of our sins, we will not be judged by God (v.31).
The Truth
Therefore I abhor myself, And repent in dust and
ashes.” (Job 42:6)
