Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary 1 Corinthians 11:31

"But if we discerned ourselves, we should not be judged." — 1 Corinthians 11:31 (ASV)

The purpose of self-examination is to come to the table prepared in heart. Paul’s teaching justifies the wholesome practice of some churches in having a communion preparatory service that affords opportunity for such selfexamination. Here he quickly adds that even when a Christian is judged by the Lord, this judgment is not punitive to destruction, but a form of fatherly discipline (Hebrews 12:5) to bring God’s child to repentance, so that he or she will not be finally and totally judged with the unsaved world (Revelation 20:12–15).