October 25, 2026 - Sunday AM Bible Class In this bible class, Hiram, co-teaching this quarter with Neal, works through 1 Corinthians chapters 8–11, continuing a quarter-long study on the unified theme of "the same mind and the same judgment." The session reviews Paul’s three-chapter discussion (ch. 8–10) on meat offered to idols, summarizes the major takeaways—most notably, don’t be a stumbling block to others and put others’ souls and good above personal preference—and connects those lessons forward into the opening of chapter 11. Hiram explains 1 Corinthians 11:1 ("Be imitators of me, even as I am of Christ") in the specific context of sacrificial service: Paul practiced giving up personal rights for the benefit of others, following Christ’s example (Philippians 2), and calls the Corinthians to do the same. Class participants contribute practical summaries—put others above self, do everything to God’s glory, and avoid actions that cause division in the body. Turning to 1 Corinthians 11:2–16, the lesson places the head-covering passage in its first-century Corinthian context: a widespread cultural custom marking gender distinctions. The teacher stresses that Paul’s instruction addresses role distinctions and public perception in that culture, not worth or value. Key points cover the argument from creation, the social meaning of uncovered or shaved heads in Corinth, the appeal to "nature" as a cultural observation, and the caution against binding that custom across all cultures and eras. The class also notes connections to modesty in 1 Timothy 2:9 and practical sensitivity when visiting churches (anecdote: mission trip to Nigeria where local practice required head coverings). The second half of the session examines 1 Corinthians 11:17–34 on the Lord’s Supper. Hiram explains Paul’s rebuke: the Corinthian worship gatherings had become divisive—wealthy members feasting while others went hungry—and the Lord’s Supper was being desecrated. Paul’s correction reframes the Supper as a congregational act that proclaims Christ’s death and anticipates his return, and warns against partaking "unworthily" by failing to discern the body—that is, the body of Christ and our relationship to fellow believers. Practical applications spelled out in the class include: prioritize unity and sacrificial service (yield rights when necessary), respect cultural norms that don’t violate Scripture to avoid being a stumbling block, treat the Lord’s Supper as a communal observance (not a private or appetitive meal), examine yourself relationally toward other Christians before participating, and remember the Supper’s dual solemn and celebratory aspects as a proclamation until Christ returns. References and supporting passages cited include 1 Corinthians 8–11, Philippians 2, Genesis 2, Acts 20, 1 Corinthians 16, and Galatians 3. The recording features interactive class discussion, local teaching illustrations (including reference to a family retreat with speaker Aubrey Johnson), real-world anecdotes, and clear, pastoral application intended to help listeners apply Paul’s principles on unity, modesty, and congregational worship in contemporary settings. Duration 44:54
