1 Corinthians 11:19, Heresies Among You

1 Corinthians 11:19 For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you.

The Apostle Paul believes that the divisions in the church came a result of heresies, departures from the fundamentals of the Christian faith. He also observed how there were those who were not the cause of divisions within the body. These are “they which are approved”, those whose behaviour were exemplary during the time of heresy. These were not entangled in the web of heretical departures but were steadfast in their faith, refusing the persuasion of the gainsayers. These proved themselves spiritual mature and true.

The divisions expose and show clearly the erring ones in the Corinthian church. This allows the church in general to identify the ones causing the division. The Lord has allowed the heresies to surface and bring to light, as MacArthur observed, “who passed the test of spiritual genuineness and purity.”

The Lord is still on the throne, and Christ, the head of the church, is very much in charge to ensure her well-being. Amen.