◄ 1 Corinthians 7 ►
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Summary Principles of Marriage 1 Corinthians 7 provides practical, Godly wisdom on the matters of marriage, singleness, divorce, and remarriage. Paul encourages believers to steward their relationship status for the glory of God and to live in undivided devotion to Him. Whether single or married, every believer is called to live a life of faithfulness, self-control, and holiness. This chapter offers a godly perspective on relationships that transcends culture, reaffirming that in every condition, our primary call is to live in obedience to God's commands. Verses 1-9: Marriage and Singleness Paul affirms that it's good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman, but given the potential for immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband. He encourages spouses to meet each other's sexual needs, abstaining only for a time of prayer and then coming together again to avoid temptation. For singles and widows, if they can exercise self-control, it's good for them to remain single, as Paul is, but if they cannot, they should marry. Verses 10-16: Divorce and Remarriage Paul advises against separation and divorce among believers, but if it happens, they should either remain unmarried or be reconciled. For mixed-faith marriages, believers should not divorce their unbelieving spouses if they're willing to live with them, as the unbelieving spouse is made holy through the believer, and their children are holy. But if the unbelieving partner leaves, the believer is not bound. Verses 17-24: Stewardship of One’s Marital Status Paul emphasizes that each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them, whether circumcised, uncircumcised, slave, or free, as it's not about outward conditions but keeping God's commands. Verses 25-40: Advice to Singles and Widows Paul suggests that it's good for the unmarried and widows to stay unmarried, as he is, due to the present crisis and the divided interests of the married. But if they lack self-control, they should marry. The betrothed should fulfill his vow if he feels no necessity to marry, but if he's firmly resolved in his heart, he can marry. Neither decision is a sin. Paul concludes with an affirmation of his aim to secure undivided devotion to the Lord. 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. 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). 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. 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. Bible Study 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? 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. Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions