What does 1 Corinthians 11:18 mean?
The Christians in Corinth are being called out over a serious issue. Paul received reports of divisions between them when coming together to observe the Lord's Supper. He states that he believes it, at least in part. He seems to be saying he doesn't want to believe they are divided even during their practice of communion, but he does believe it.Paul began this letter by calling out divisions amongst the Corinthians over other issues, including to which apostle or minister each claimed loyalty (1 Corinthians 1:10–17; 3:1–23). Paul made clear that their divisions were evidence of both a misunderstanding of truth, spiritual immaturity, and a lack of loving concern for each other. While these divisions are not a good thing, overall, Paul points out that some "factions" are necessary: they reveal the difference between those on the side of truth, and those on the side of error.
Those same issues will be raised in the following correction from the apostle about how to conduct the Lord's Supper together.