Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
first of all--In the first place. The "divisions" (Greek, "schisms") meant, are not merely those of opinion (1 Corinthians 1:10), but in outward acts at the love-feasts (Agapæ), (1 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], (1 Corinthians 12:1; 1 Corinthians 14:23, 1 Corinthians 14:26, 1 Corinthians 14:33, 1 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 commentary entries containing this verse:
1 Corinthians 1:11
1 Corinthians 11:19
1 Corinthians 11:20
1 Corinthians 12:25
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