1 Corinthians 11:18

For first of all, when ye come together in the church,. hear that divisions exist among you; and. partly believe it.

'first of all' -'in the first place' (NASV) 'Paul did not follow up his form "first of all" with. "secondly". Hence, there is some discussion regarding what the "secondly" is. Some consider that it refers to the "rest" of v. 34...A more likely explanation is that the second matter is the problem of spiritual gifts which begins in 1 Corinthians 12:1'. (Willis p. 390)

'when ye come together in the church' -i.e. assemble.

'I hear' -'The rumors of strife were constant (I keep on hearing)' (Robertson p. 163) 'The pr. "I am hearing" suggests..continued information from various quarters.' (Gr. Ex. N.T. p. 877)

'divisions exist among you' -not necessarily the divisions of 1 Corinthians 1:11-13, but rather divisions that were happening during the assembly and specifically surrounding the partaking of the Lord's Supper. Divisions that he will define for us.

'divisions' -4978. schisma skhis'-mah; from 4977;. split or gap ("schism"), literally or figuratively: -division, rent, schism.

'and. partly believe it' -'and. think there must be truth in what. hear.' (Phi) This statement makes the Corinthians know that Paul isn't blindly believing every rumor about them, and yet at the same time, Paul's sources are credible, trustworthy and very concerned about the church in Corinth. There comes. point that so much evidence has added up that you can't ignore it.

Point to Note:

A great lesson is here to be learned. This abuse didn't take Paul by surprise, seeing all the other problems and abuses the Corinthians were involved in. At times we are our own worst enemy. If your not living right, if your life is inconsistent, if your having personal problems, it is very logical that people (yes, even members of the church) will tend to believe or place more credit in an accusation against you, than, if your life had been consistent before the accusation.

The best way to protect yourself against unfounded accusations, is to live. consistent life!. track record that includes an inconsistent life, virtually condemns you, even if the specific accusation happens to be false.

In that situation, you must recognize the fact that your past life of inconsistency and spiritual weakness is the worst possible evidence against you, and in. sense you happen to be your own worst critic and accuser.