◄ 1 Corinthians 7 ►
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Principles of Marriage 1Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good to abstain from sexual relations.a 2But because there is so much sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband. 3The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 4The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife. 5Do not deprive each other, except by mutual consent and for a time, so you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again, so that Satan will not tempt you through your lack of self-control. 6I say this as a concession, not as a command. 7I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that. 8Now to the unmarried and widows I say this: It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am. 9But if they cannot control themselves, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion. 10To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. 11But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife. 12To the rest I say this (I, not the Lord): If a brother has an unbelieving wife and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her. 13And if a woman has an unbelieving husband and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him. 14For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his believing wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15But if the unbeliever leaves, let him go. The believing brother or sister is not bound in such cases. God has called youb to live in peace. 16How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife? Live Your Calling 17Regardless, each one should lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is what I prescribe in all the churches. 18Was a man already circumcised when he was called? He should not become uncircumcised. Was a man still uncircumcised when called? He should not be circumcised. 19Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what counts. 20Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called. 21Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it concern you—but if you can gain your freedom, take the opportunity. 22For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman. Conversely, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. 23You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. 24Brothers, each one should remain in the situation he was in when God called him. The Unmarried and Widowed 25Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. 26Because of the presentc crisis, I think it is good for a man to remain as he is. 27Are you committed to a wife? Do not seek to be released. Are you free of commitment? Do not look for a wife. 28But if you do marry, you have not sinned. And if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But those who marry will face troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this. 29What I am saying, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; 30those who weep, as if they did not; those who are joyful, as if they were not; those who make a purchase, as if they had nothing; 31and those who use the things of this world, as if not dependent on them. For this world in its present form is passing away. 32I want you to be free from concern. The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord. 33But the married man is concerned about the affairs of this world, how he can please his wife, 34and his interests are divided. The unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the work of the Lord, how she can be holy in both body and spirit. But the married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world, how she can please her husband. 35I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but in order to promote proper decorum and undivided devotion to the Lord. 36However, if someone thinks he is acting inappropriately toward his betrothed, and if she is beyond her youth and they ought to marry,d let him do as he wishes; he is not sinning; they should get married. 37But the man who is firmly established in his heart and under no constraint, with control over his will and resolve in his heart not to marry the virgin,e he will do well. 38So then, he who marries the virgin does well, but he who does not marry her does even better. 39A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, as long as he belongs to the Lord.f 40In my judgment, however, she is happier if she remains as she is. And I think that I too have the Spirit of God. Footnotes: 1 a Literally It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 15 b SBL, BYZ, and TR us 26 c Or impending 36 d Literally and it ought to be so 37 e Literally in his heart to keep the virgin or in his heart to keep the betrothed 39 f Literally she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub 1 Corinthians 7 Summary Principles of Marriage Verses 1–7 – Marriage and Celibacy Paul answers a question the Corinthians had sent. While singleness can be good, sexual immorality is common, so God provides marriage. Husbands and wives owe each other affection, neither owning personal rights to refuse the other. Short seasons of agreement for prayer are fine, but they must reunite so Satan cannot exploit their desires. Paul’s single life is a gift; others receive a different gift. Verses 8–9 – Counsel to the Unmarried and Widowed Remaining single can spare trouble, yet those who struggle with self-control should marry. “It is better to marry than to burn with passion.” Verses 10–11 – The Lord’s Command on Divorce Quoting Jesus, Paul states that married believers must not divorce. If separation happens, reconciliation or lifelong singleness is the only godly path. Verses 12–16 – Believers Married to Unbelievers If the unbelieving spouse is willing to stay, the marriage stays. The believer’s presence brings a holy influence to spouse and children. If the unbeliever departs, the believer is released and may live in peace. Salvation of the unbelieving partner remains possible. Verses 17–24 – Live Faithfully Where God Has Placed You Whatever life situation—circumcision, uncircumcision, slave, or free—stay there unless God opens a lawful door. External status is secondary; obeying God’s commands matters most. Christ has bought every believer, so no one should live as a slave to people. Verses 25–35 – Advice for the Never-Married Amid Present Distress With looming hardship, Paul suggests singleness for those never married. A married person must divide attention, but a single person can focus on pleasing the Lord. Nothing here is a trap; Paul simply wants believers “to live in undivided devotion.” Verses 36–38 – When Engagements Feel Pressured If an engaged man thinks he is acting improperly toward his fiancée, marriage is fine. Yet choosing singleness can be even better, provided both agree. Verses 39–40 – Freedom After Widowhood Marriage lasts “as long as her husband lives.” A widow is free to remarry “only in the Lord,” yet Paul considers staying single happier in light of the Spirit’s guidance. 1 Corinthians 7 offers Paul's counsel on marriage, singleness, and relationships within the Christian community in Corinth. Paul discusses the role and responsibility of each spouse in a marriage, the sanctity of marriage, and the value of singleness. He advises believers on issues concerning divorce, remarriage, and mixed-faith marriages, emphasizing that all should live in the state to which they were called when they became believers. Historical Setting of Corinth Founded by Julius Caesar and bustling with trade, Corinth sat on the narrow isthmus linking northern and southern Greece. Sailors, merchants, athletes, and worshipers of many gods packed its streets. Temple prostitution tied to Aphrodite had stained the city’s reputation for centuries. Inscriptions mention Erastus, the city treasurer (cf. Romans 16:23), confirming a mix of social classes that mirrors Paul’s references to slaves and free people. Marriage in First-Century Corinth • Most weddings were arranged and legal contracts were recognized by the state. • Roman law permitted either spouse to initiate divorce by simple notice, which explains Paul’s firm call to resist the local custom (Mark 10:11-12). • Archaeology shows separate housing areas for men and women in larger homes, yet sexual morals remained lax in the culture, making Paul’s instructions on marital faithfulness counter-cultural. Singleness and the Gift of Self-Control Paul’s own life (Acts 18:1-3; 1 Corinthians 9:5) illustrates freedom to marry yet willingness to remain single for ministry. Jesus highlights voluntary singleness “for the sake of the kingdom” (Matthew 19:12). God supplies the needed grace; singleness is never second-class but a strategic calling. Divorce, Remarriage, and Jesus’ Teaching • Jesus: “Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate” (Matthew 19:6). • Malachi 2:16 shows God’s hatred of divorce because it “covers one’s garment with violence.” • Where abuse or abandonment occurs, 1 Corinthians 7:15 gives freedom to let the unbeliever go, preserving peace. • Remarriage is permitted for widows (7:39) and arguably for believers released by an unbelieving spouse, yet always “only in the Lord.” Mixed Marriages and Household Holiness Old Testament converts such as Ruth illustrate a believing spouse’s influence. Peter echoes Paul: “Even if some do not obey the word, they may be won without a word by the conduct of their wives” (1 Peter 3:1). Children growing up in such homes enjoy the blessing of a godly parent and early exposure to the gospel. Contentment in One’s Calling Paul applies the same principle he teaches elsewhere: “Whatever you do…do it as serving the Lord” (Colossians 3:23). Slaves who could gain freedom should do so, yet freedom in Christ is already theirs (Galatians 3:28). Circumcised or not, all are equal at the foot of the cross (Acts 15:1-11). The ‘Present Distress’ Scholars point to local famine (Acts 11:28), persecution under Emperor Claudius, or general end-time expectancy. Whatever the exact cause, Paul urges practical choices that minimize earthly anxieties and maximize readiness for the Lord’s return (Romans 13:11-14). Practical Counsel for Engagements and Weddings • Long betrothals risk moral failure; if purity is hard, set a wedding date (7:36). • Parental involvement was normal; Paul’s language about a man “acting improperly” can also apply to a father deciding for his daughter. • Ceremonies then were family events followed by feast and procession—very different from today’s multi-day planning stress, so Paul’s call to simplicity still speaks. Widowhood, Honor, and Support 1 Timothy 5:3-16 details how churches should care for widows—family first, then congregation. Anna (Luke 2:36-38) shows the power of a widow devoted to prayer. Remarriage remains honorable when pursued “in the Lord,” guarding against unequal yokes (2 Corinthians 6:14). Archaeological Glimpses • The bema (judgment seat) in Corinth’s forum recalls Paul’s trial before Gallio (Acts 18:12-17) and his emphasis that “we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ” (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Funerary inscriptions reveal short life spans, explaining why widowhood was common and why Paul addressed it so directly. • Household artifacts—oil lamps, weaving tools, writing tablets—remind us that believers wrestled with ordinary chores while pondering questions of marriage and mission. Key Cross-References • Genesis 2:24 – God’s original design for marriage. • Deuteronomy 24:1-4 – Background on divorce certificates. • Matthew 5:32; 19:4-9; Mark 10:2-12; Luke 16:18 – Jesus on lifelong marriage. • Romans 7:1-4 – Death ends marital bonds, freeing a spouse. • Ephesians 5:22-33; Colossians 3:18-25 – Mutual love and respect in marriage. • 1 Thessalonians 4:3-8 – God’s will for sexual purity. • 1 Peter 3:1-7 – Winning an unbelieving spouse through godly conduct. Living the Chapter Today Paul balances realism with hope. The church should prize both marriage and singleness, honor every believer’s calling, protect the vulnerable, and keep eyes fixed on Christ’s coming. Whether changing diapers, working a job, or preaching the gospel, believers can “serve the Lord without distraction.” Connections to Additional Scriptures Genesis 2:24 For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh. This verse underscores the biblical foundation of marriage. Matthew 19:11-12 Jesus speaks about the gift of singleness, affirming Paul's teaching on the subject. Ephesians 5:22-33 This passage provides further insight into the roles and responsibilities within a Christian marriage. Teaching Points Marriage and Sexual Purity Paul begins by addressing the importance of sexual purity within marriage. He writes, But because there is so much sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband (1 Corinthians 7:2). This underscores the sanctity of marriage as a safeguard against immorality. Mutual Responsibilities Paul emphasizes mutual responsibilities within marriage, stating, The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband (1 Corinthians 7:3). This highlights the importance of mutual respect and care. Singleness as a Gift Paul acknowledges singleness as a gift, saying, I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that (1 Corinthians 7:7). Singleness is presented as a unique opportunity for undivided devotion to the Lord. Marriage and Worldly Troubles Paul advises that marriage can bring worldly troubles, stating, But those who marry will face troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this (1 Corinthians 7:28). This serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with marital commitments. Living in the Present Paul encourages believers to live in the present, saying, What I mean, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none (1 Corinthians 7:29). This calls for a focus on eternal priorities over earthly concerns. Practical Applications Honor God in Relationships Whether married or single, strive to honor God in all relationships by upholding purity and mutual respect. Embrace Your Season Recognize and embrace the season of life you are in, whether it is singleness or marriage, as a unique opportunity to serve God. Prioritize Spiritual Growth Focus on spiritual growth and eternal priorities, rather than being consumed by worldly concerns. Seek Godly Counsel In matters of marriage and singleness, seek godly counsel and wisdom from Scripture and mature believers. People 1. Paul Paul is the author of 1 Corinthians, and in chapter 7, he addresses various issues concerning marriage and singleness. He provides guidance based on his apostolic authority and personal judgment, emphasizing the importance of devotion to the Lord. In the original Greek, his name is Παῦλος (Paulos). 2. The Unmarried Paul speaks to the unmarried, advising them that it is good to remain single as he is, but also acknowledging that marriage is not a sin (1 Corinthians 7:8-9). The Greek term used here is ἄγαμος (agamos), which refers to those who are not married. 3. The Married Paul addresses married couples, instructing them not to separate or divorce, and if they do, to remain unmarried or reconcile (1 Corinthians 7:10-11). The Greek word for married is γαμέω (gameo). 4. The Wife Paul gives specific instructions to wives, emphasizing their role in marriage and the importance of not leaving their husbands (1 Corinthians 7:10). The Greek term for wife is γυνή (gynē). 5. The Husband Similarly, Paul instructs husbands not to divorce their wives, highlighting the mutual responsibilities within marriage (1 Corinthians 7:11). The Greek word for husband is ἀνήρ (anēr). 6. The Believing Spouse Paul discusses situations where one spouse is a believer and the other is not, advising the believing spouse to remain with the unbelieving partner if they are willing to stay (1 Corinthians 7:12-14). The Greek term πιστός (pistos) refers to the believing spouse. 7. The Unbelieving Spouse The unbelieving spouse is addressed in the context of their relationship with a believing partner, with Paul advising that if the unbeliever chooses to leave, the believer is not bound in such circumstances (1 Corinthians 7:12-15). The Greek term ἄπιστος (apistos) refers to the unbelieving spouse. 8. The Betrothed Paul provides guidance to those who are betrothed, suggesting that they can marry if they wish, but also highlighting the benefits of remaining single to focus on serving the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:36-38). The Greek term for betrothed is παρθένος (parthenos), which can also mean virgin. 9. Widows Paul advises widows that they are free to remarry, but he suggests that they might be happier if they remain single, as he is (1 Corinthians 7:39-40). The Greek term for widow is χήρα (chēra). Places 1. Corinth The city of Corinth is the primary setting for the letter, as it is addressed to the church there. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece, known for its wealth and diversity, as well as its moral challenges. The Apostle Paul wrote 1 Corinthians to address various issues within the Corinthian church, including questions about marriage and singleness, which are discussed in chapter 7. In 1 Corinthians 7, specific geographical locations are not mentioned beyond the context of the letter being addressed to the Corinthians. The focus of the chapter is more on personal and relational guidance rather than specific places. The chapter deals with issues of marriage, celibacy, and the roles of husbands and wives, providing instructions that were meant to guide the believers in Corinth in their personal lives and relationships. Events 1. Guidance on Marriage and Celibacy Paul begins by addressing questions from the Corinthians regarding marriage and celibacy. He states, "It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman" (1 Corinthians 7:1). The Greek term used here for "sexual relations" is "ἅπτεσθαι" (haptesthai), which implies physical contact or touch. 2. Instructions for Married Couples Paul advises married couples to fulfill their marital duties to each other, emphasizing mutual consent and authority over each other's bodies: "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:3). The Greek word "ὀφειλή" (opheilē) is used for "duty," indicating an obligation or debt. 3. Temporary Abstinence for Prayer He permits temporary abstinence from sexual relations for prayer, but advises couples to come together again to avoid temptation: "Do not deprive one another, except by mutual consent and for a time, so you may devote yourselves to prayer" (1 Corinthians 7:5). 4. Concession, Not Command Paul clarifies that his advice on celibacy is a concession, not a command: "I say this as a concession, not as a command" (1 Corinthians 7:6). The Greek word "συγγνώμην" (syngnōmēn) suggests a form of permission or allowance. 5. Preference for Singleness Paul expresses his personal preference for singleness, stating, "I wish that all men were as I am" (1 Corinthians 7:7). He acknowledges that each person has their own gift from God, using the Greek "χάρισμα" (charisma) for "gift." 6. Advice to the Unmarried and Widows He advises the unmarried and widows to remain single if possible, but allows marriage if they struggle with self-control: "It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am. But if they cannot control themselves, let them marry" (1 Corinthians 7:8-9). 7. Instructions for Married Believers Paul instructs married believers not to separate or divorce, referencing the Lord's command: "A wife must not separate from her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:10). 8. Guidance for Mixed Marriages For marriages between a believer and an unbeliever, Paul advises the believer to remain with the unbelieving spouse if they are willing to stay: "If any brother has a wife who is not a believer and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her" (1 Corinthians 7:12). 9. Sanctification of the Unbelieving Spouse He explains that the unbelieving spouse is sanctified through the believing partner, and their children are considered holy: "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife" (1 Corinthians 7:14). The Greek "ἡγίασται" (hēgiastai) means "made holy" or "set apart." 10. Call to Peace Paul emphasizes the importance of peace in marriage, stating, "God has called you to live in peace" (1 Corinthians 7:15). 11. Living as Called He encourages believers to live according to the situation they were in when God called them, whether circumcised or uncircumcised, slave or free: "Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called" (1 Corinthians 7:20). 12. Advice on Remaining Unmarried Paul advises those who are unmarried to consider remaining so due to the present crisis, but acknowledges marriage is not a sin: "Because of the present crisis, I think it is good for a man to remain as he is" (1 Corinthians 7:26). 13. Focus on Serving the Lord He highlights the benefits of singleness in serving the Lord without distraction: "An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs" (1 Corinthians 7:32). 14. Conclusion on Marriage and Singleness Paul concludes by affirming that both marriage and singleness are valid choices, but he believes singleness allows for undivided devotion to the Lord: "So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does even better" (1 Corinthians 7:38). Lessons from 1 Corinthians 7 1. Embrace the Gift of Singleness In 1 Corinthians 7:7, Paul expresses a profound truth: "I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that." Singleness is not a burden but a unique gift from God, offering opportunities for undivided devotion to Him. Embrace this season as a time to grow closer to God and serve Him wholeheartedly. 2. Marriage as a Sacred Covenant Marriage is a divine institution, and Paul emphasizes its sanctity in 1 Corinthians 7:10-11: "To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband." Marriage is a lifelong commitment, reflecting Christ's unwavering love for the Church. Cherish and nurture this covenant with love and respect. 3. The Importance of Mutual Consent Paul highlights the importance of mutual consent in marriage in 1 Corinthians 7:5: "Do not deprive one another, except by mutual consent and for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer." This teaches us the value of communication and agreement in relationships, ensuring that both partners are aligned in their spiritual and personal goals. 4. Contentment in Your Current Situation In 1 Corinthians 7:17, Paul advises, "Each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him." Whether single or married, contentment in your current situation is key. Trust that God has placed you where you are for a purpose, and seek to glorify Him in your present circumstances. 5. The Temporary Nature of Earthly Matters Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 7:31, "For this world in its present form is passing away." This perspective encourages us to focus on eternal matters rather than getting caught up in the temporary concerns of this world. Prioritize your relationship with God and the eternal impact of your actions. 6. The Call to Live Without Distraction In 1 Corinthians 7:35, Paul writes, "I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but that you may live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord." Whether single or married, strive to live a life free from distractions that pull you away from your devotion to God. Keep your focus on Him and His purposes. 7. The Freedom to Serve God Fully Paul speaks of the freedom that comes with singleness in 1 Corinthians 7:32: "I would like you to be free from concern. An unmarried man is concerned about the Lord’s affairs—how he can please the Lord." Use this freedom to serve God with all your heart, exploring new ways to contribute to His kingdom. 8. The Importance of Self-Control In 1 Corinthians 7:9, Paul advises, "But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion." Self-control is a vital aspect of Christian living, whether in singleness or marriage. Seek God's strength to maintain purity and honor Him in all aspects of your life. 9. The Role of Peace in Relationships Paul encourages believers to live in peace in 1 Corinthians 7:15: "But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or the sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace." Strive for peace in all your relationships, reflecting God's love and grace to those around you. 10. The Ultimate Goal: Pleasing the Lord Finally, Paul sums up the chapter with a focus on pleasing the Lord in 1 Corinthians 7:34: "Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit." Whether single or married, let your ultimate goal be to please God in all you do. Seek His guidance and wisdom, and let your life be a testament to His love and faithfulness. Topics 1. Principles of Marriage (1 Corinthians 7:1-7) Paul addresses questions about marriage, emphasizing that each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband to avoid immorality. He discusses the mutual rights and responsibilities within marriage, highlighting the importance of conjugal rights and mutual consent. The Greek term "συνευδοκεῖ" (syneudokei) is used to describe mutual agreement, underscoring the importance of partnership in marriage. 2. Advice to the Unmarried and Widows (1 Corinthians 7:8-9) Paul advises the unmarried and widows that it is good for them to remain single, as he is. However, he acknowledges that if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion. The Greek word "πυροῦσθαι" (pyrousthai) is used here, meaning to burn, indicating intense desire. 3. Instructions for Married Believers (1 Corinthians 7:10-11) Paul provides instructions for married believers, stating that a wife must not separate from her husband, and if she does, she must remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. Similarly, a husband must not divorce his wife. This reflects the permanence of marriage as intended by God. 4. Guidance for Mixed Marriages (1 Corinthians 7:12-16) Paul addresses believers married to unbelievers, advising them not to divorce if the unbelieving spouse is willing to live with them. The sanctity of the believing spouse can have a sanctifying effect on the unbelieving partner and their children. The Greek term "ἡγίασται" (hēgiastai) is used, meaning sanctified or made holy. 5. Living as You Are Called (1 Corinthians 7:17-24) Paul encourages believers to remain in the situation they were in when God called them, whether circumcised or uncircumcised, slave or free. The focus is on living faithfully in one's current circumstances, as each person is called by the Lord. The Greek word "κληθῆναι" (klēthēnai) is used, meaning to be called. 6. Concerning the Unmarried (1 Corinthians 7:25-35) Paul offers advice to virgins and the unmarried, suggesting that due to the present crisis, it is good to remain as they are. He emphasizes the benefits of singleness in serving the Lord without distraction. The Greek term "ἀπερισπάστως" (aperispastōs) is used, meaning without distraction. 7. The Freedom to Marry (1 Corinthians 7:36-38) Paul discusses the freedom to marry, stating that if anyone feels they are acting improperly toward their betrothed, they should marry, as it is not a sin. However, those who remain single do even better, highlighting the value of both marriage and singleness. 8. Widows and Remarriage (1 Corinthians 7:39-40) Paul concludes with guidance for widows, stating that they are free to remarry, but only in the Lord. He suggests that a widow is happier if she remains as she is, according to his judgment, which he believes is guided by the Spirit of God. The phrase "ἐν Κυρίῳ" (en Kyriō) is used, meaning in the Lord, indicating the importance of faith in remarriage decisions. Themes 1. Marriage and Celibacy In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul addresses the themes of marriage and celibacy, emphasizing the value of both. He states, "It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman" (1 Corinthians 7:1), highlighting celibacy as a commendable state. However, he also acknowledges the importance of marriage for those who struggle with self-control, saying, "But because there is so much sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband" (1 Corinthians 7:2). The Greek word for "sexual immorality" is "πορνεία" (porneia), indicating a broad range of illicit sexual activities. 2. Mutual Responsibilities in Marriage Paul discusses the mutual responsibilities of husbands and wives, emphasizing equality and mutual consent. He writes, "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:3). The Greek term "ὀφειλή" (opheilē) used here refers to a debt or obligation, underscoring the reciprocal nature of marital duties. 3. The Gift of Singleness Paul acknowledges singleness as a gift, stating, "I wish that all men were as I am. But each man has his own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that" (1 Corinthians 7:7). The Greek word "χάρισμα" (charisma) is used for "gift," indicating a divine endowment or grace, suggesting that both marriage and singleness are valuable gifts from God. 4. Advice to the Unmarried and Widows Paul offers specific advice to the unmarried and widows, recommending that they remain single if possible: "It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am" (1 Corinthians 7:8). However, he also provides a concession for marriage if they cannot exercise self-control, reflecting a practical approach to personal circumstances. 5. Instructions for Married Believers Paul provides instructions for married believers, emphasizing the permanence of marriage: "A wife must not separate from her husband" (1 Corinthians 7:10). He underscores the sanctity of marriage, reflecting the Hebrew concept of "בְּרִית" (berit), meaning covenant, which is foundational in understanding marriage as a lifelong commitment. 6. Mixed Marriages (Believers and Unbelievers) Paul addresses marriages between believers and unbelievers, advising believers to remain with their unbelieving spouses if they are willing to stay: "For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her believing husband" (1 Corinthians 7:14). The Greek word "ἡγίασται" (hēgiastai) means "sanctified," indicating a form of spiritual influence or blessing. 7. Contentment in One's Calling Paul encourages believers to remain content in their current state, whether married or single, as part of their calling: "Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called" (1 Corinthians 7:20). The Greek term "κλῆσις" (klēsis) for "calling" suggests a divine invitation or vocation, emphasizing the importance of serving God in whatever state one finds oneself. 8. The Present Distress and Its Implications Paul refers to a "present distress" (1 Corinthians 7:26) as a reason for his advice on marriage and singleness, suggesting that external circumstances should influence personal decisions. The Greek word "ἀνάγκη" (anankē) implies a pressing necessity or crisis, indicating that Paul's guidance is contextually driven by the challenges of the time. 9. Undivided Devotion to the Lord Paul highlights the advantage of singleness in fostering undivided devotion to the Lord: "An unmarried man is concerned about the things of the Lord, how he can please the Lord" (1 Corinthians 7:32). The Greek word "ἀμέριμνος" (amerimnos) means "free from care," suggesting that singleness allows for a focused commitment to spiritual matters. 10. Freedom and Responsibility in Personal Decisions Paul emphasizes the freedom and responsibility individuals have in making personal decisions regarding marriage, stating, "He who marries his betrothed does well, but he who does not marry her does even better" (1 Corinthians 7:38). This reflects a balance between personal freedom and the responsibility to consider one's circumstances and calling. Prayer Points For Marriages Pray for strength, unity, and mutual respect in marriages, that they may reflect Christ's love for the church. For Singles Pray for contentment and purpose for those who are single, that they may use their season of life to serve God wholeheartedly. For Purity Pray for purity and holiness in all relationships, that believers may honor God with their bodies and lives. For Wisdom Pray for wisdom and discernment in navigating the complexities of relationships, seeking God's guidance in all decisions. May this study of 1 Corinthians 7 inspire you to live a life that honors God, whether in marriage or singleness, and to seek His will in all aspects of your relationships. Answering Tough Questions 1. In 1 Corinthians 7:7–8, is Paul’s preference for celibacy contradictory to the Genesis command to “be fruitful and multiply”? 2. Does 1 Corinthians 7:10–11 contradict Jesus’ teaching on divorce in Matthew 19:9? 3. How does 1 Corinthians 7:12–16 reconcile with other biblical passages that permit divorce only for adultery? 4. When Paul says “the time is short” in 1 Corinthians 7:29, does this suggest a failed expectation of an imminent end of the world? 5. Does 1 Corinthians 7:9 oversimplify human relationships by advocating marriage primarily to avoid sexual immorality? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does Paul's teaching on marriage and singleness challenge or affirm your personal views? 2. What does this passage teach about the purpose and responsibilities within a Christian marriage? 3. How does Paul's advice to singles apply to your current stage of life? 4. In what ways can believers steward their current marital or single status for the glory of God? 5. What does Paul's command to "remain in the condition in which you were called" mean to you? 6. How can we apply Paul's counsel on marriage and divorce to present day situations in the church? 7. What is the significance of Paul's advice to those in mixed-faith marriages? 8. How do the teachings in this chapter inform your views on relationship, marriage, and divorce? 9. How can the church better support both single and married individuals in light of Paul's teachings? 10. What practical steps can a married couple take to ensure they are fulfilling their responsibilities to one another? 11. How does the idea of marriage as a form of protection against sexual immorality resonate with today's culture? 12. What can we learn from Paul's teachings about the sanctity and permanence of marriage? 13. How can we reconcile Paul's teachings on marriage and singleness with societal views today? 14. What does it mean for an unbelieving spouse to be "sanctified" by the believing spouse? 15. How can a Christian partner best influence an unbelieving spouse, according to this chapter? 16. What can the church do to support those in mixed-faith marriages? 17. How does this chapter challenge the way you view your current relationship status? 18. What role does self-control play in Paul's counsel to the unmarried and widows? 19. How does Paul's discussion of marriage and singleness influence your understanding of commitment and personal relationships? 20. In what ways can the teachings from this chapter be applied to non-marital relationships in the Christian community? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions