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Originally Posted by OBW
In this context, I wonder if we have taken 11:19 out of context by making it talk about something that is essentially not what Paul is really talking about at that point. I wonder if it is really talking about there being purpose for divisions to prove what God approves. Or is he pointing back at their divisions that he has already condemned and indicating that here at the Lord’s table the problem once again rears its ugly head with some supposed purpose of seeking God’s approval. Was this verse talking about gaining God’s approval or about pointing to misguided purposes in the way they held their table meetings.
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I apologize but this was not a very clear elucidation to me, OBW, so please forgive me if I get this wrong.
Is it your suggestion that 11:19 is essentially saying "Of course there are sects among you because everyone is vying to be most approved" or something like that?
I would say that Paul's concept concerning "approval" is well documented in the scriptures (if poorly studied and understood) and I would not presume the reading you've suggested (if you have indeed suggested it.) 2 Tim. 2:15 in particular is a strong parallel with regard to the concept of "approval" reflected in 1 Cor. 11:19.
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Rom 14:18 For he that in this serves the Christ [is] acceptable to God and approved of men.
Rom 16:10 Salute Apelles, approved in Christ. Salute those who belong to Aristobulus.
2Cr 10:18 For not *he* that commends himself is approved, but whom the Lord commends.
2Cr 13:7 But we pray to God that ye may do nothing evil; not that *we* may appear approved, but that *ye* may do what is right, and *we* be as reprobates.
1Th 2:4 but even as we have been approved of God to have the glad tidings entrusted to us, so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, who proves our hearts.
2Ti 2:15 Strive diligently to present thyself approved to God, a workman that has not to be ashamed, cutting in a straight line the word of truth.
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I think it would be an excellent exercise (which I have not done and cannot fully do at present) to consider what exactly might Paul mean by "approved" (I think 2 Cor. 10:18 is particularly interesting!) but I'm not really seeing this reading I think you have suggested.
I look around this forum, in fact, and I think I can see 1 Cor. 11:19 in action from time to time.