1 Corinthians 11:2 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 11:2 mean?

1 Corinthians 11:2 shows Paul praising the Corinthian Christians for remembering him and for keeping the teachings and practices he passed on to them. Paul is acknowledging their effort to hold onto the instructions he gave when he was with them.

Paul is writing to the church in Corinth, a group of believers he had taught earlier. In this verse, Paul is encouraging them because they have been careful to follow the "ordinances" or traditions he delivered. This sets a positive tone before he moves on to address specific issues about worship and conduct in the following verses.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 11:2

• "ordinances" (παραδόσεις, paradosis): This word means "traditions" or "teachings handed down." Paul is not talking about civil laws or rituals, but about the practices and instructions he personally gave to the church.
• "keep" (κατέχετε, katechete): This word means to hold fast, keep firmly, or maintain. Paul is commending the Corinthians for not letting go of what he taught them, showing their commitment to the faith as he presented it.
• "delivered" (παρέδωκα, paredōka): This word means to hand over or pass on. Paul is emphasizing that what he taught was intentionally given to them, not something they came up with themselves.

Why 1 Corinthians 11:2 matters

• This verse shows that Paul valued the careful transmission and keeping of Christian teachings, highlighting the importance of continuity in faith and practice.
• By starting with praise, Paul sets a respectful and encouraging tone, which helps the Corinthians be more open to the corrections and instructions he will give in the rest of the chapter.
• The verse clarifies that the "ordinances" are not man-made rules but teachings Paul received and passed on, which helps readers understand the authority behind his instructions.