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Book of 1 Corinthians - Chapter 1 - Verse 11

1:11
For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you.

Meaning

This verse, found in 1 Corinthians 1:11, highlights a key issue that was present in the early Christian community in Corinth. The apostle Paul is addressing the Corinthians, informing them that he has been made aware of the internal conflicts and disagreements within their community. The phrase "by them which are of the house of Chloe" indicates that the source of this information comes from trustworthy individuals within the Christian community. Paul refers to these individuals as "my brethren," emphasizing the familial bond that exists among believers. The mention of contentions among the Corinthians serves as a warning to address and resolve the conflicts that threaten to disrupt the unity and harmony of the community. This verse underscores the importance of maintaining peace, love, and understanding within the Christian community, in line with the teachings of Jesus Christ.

Theological Overview

Paul's statement in 1 Corinthians 1:11 sheds light on the internal divisions present in the Corinthian church. The use of the term "contentions" in this verse is significant, as it indicates strife, discord, and quarrels among believers. The Greek word used for "contentions" is ̓εριθεία, which can also be translated as "strife" or "selfish ambition." This suggests that the root cause of the issue was likely a lack of unity and a focus on personal agendas rather than the well-being of the church as a whole. Additionally, the fact that Paul learned of these contentions from the household of Chloe emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, as it was not just a rumor but a report from a reliable source. This verse serves as a reminder for believers to prioritize harmony, humility, and love within the body of Christ, and to actively work towards resolving conflicts and promoting unity.

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