Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
first of all—In the first place. The "divisions" (Greek, "schisms") meant, are not merely those of opinion (I Corinthians 1:10), but in outward acts at the love-feasts (Agapæ), (I Corinthians 11:21). He does not follow up the expression, "in the first place," by "in the second place." But though not expressed, a second abuse was in his mind when he said, "In the first place," namely, THE ABUSE OF SPIRITUAL GIFTS, which also created disorder in their assemblies [ALFORD], (I Corinthians 12:1; I Corinthians 14:23, I Corinthians 14:26, I Corinthians 14:33, I Corinthians 14:40).
in the church—not the place of worship; for ISIDORE OF PELUSIUM denies that there were such places specially set apart for worship in the apostles' times [Epistle, 246.2]. But, "in the assembly" or "congregation"; in convocation for worship, where especially love, order, and harmony should prevail. The very ordinance instituted for uniting together believers in one body, was made an occasion of "divisions" (schisms).
partly—He hereby excepts the innocent. "I am unwilling to believe all I hear, but some I cannot help believing" [ALFORD]: while my love is unaffected by it [BENGEL].
Other Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown entries containing 1 Corinthians 11:18:
1 Corinthians 1:11
1 Corinthians 11:19
1 Corinthians 11:20
1 Corinthians 12:25
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