God's Blessing

1 Corinthians 7 Explained – Verse by Verse Commentary

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by

Reverend Michael Johnson
in ,

1 Now concerning the matters about which you wrote: “It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.”
2 But because of the temptation to sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife and each woman her own husband.
3 The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband.
4 For the wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does.
5 Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; but then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
6 Now as a concession, not a command, I say this.
7 I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one of one kind and one of another.
8 To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single, as I am.
9 But if they cannot exercise self-control, they should marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
10 To the married I give this charge (not I, but the Lord): the wife should not separate from her husband.
11 (but if she does, she should remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband), and the husband should not divorce his wife.
12 To the rest I say (I, not the Lord) that if any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he should not divorce her.
13 If any woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she should not divorce him.
14 For the unbelieving husband is made holy because of his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy because of her husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy.
15 But if the unbelieving partner separates, let it be so. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved. God has called you to peace.
16 For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?
17 Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
18 Was anyone at the time of his call already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone at the time of his call uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision.
19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commands is what counts.
20 Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.
21 Were you a bondservant when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.)
22 For he who was called in the Lord as a bondservant is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a bondservant of Christ.
23 You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.
24 So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
25 Now concerning the betrothed, I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.
26 I think that in view of the present distress it is good for a person to remain as he is.
27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife.
28 But if you do marry, you have not sinned, and if a betrothed woman marries, she has not sinned. Yet those who marry will have worldly troubles, and I would spare you that.
29 This is what I mean, brothers: the appointed time has grown very short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none,
30 and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no goods,
31 and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.
32 I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord.
33 But the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife.
34 and his interests are divided. And the unmarried or betrothed woman is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to be holy in body and spirit. But the married woman is anxious about worldly things, how to please her husband.
35 I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord.
36 If anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed, if his passions are strong, and it has to be, let him do as he wishes: let them marry—it is no sin.
37 But whoever is firmly established in his heart, being under no necessity but having his desire under control, and has determined this in his heart, to keep her as his betrothed, he will do well.
38 So then he who marries his betrothed does well, and he who refrains from marriage will do even better.
39 A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.
40 Yet in my judgment she is happier if she remains as she is. And I think that I too have the Spirit of God.

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The True Meaning of 1 Corinthians 7

The First Epistle to the Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul, a former persecutor of the early Christian church who experienced a dramatic conversion and became one of the most influential figures in the spread of Christianity. Paul addresses the Corinthian church regarding various matters of marriage and sexuality in this chapter, providing guidance and instruction on how believers should navigate these complex issues.

The chapter begins by discussing the topic of marriage, with Paul acknowledging the challenges and temptations that come with singleness and the married state. He encourages those who are married to remain faithful to their spouse, while also recognizing the unique opportunities and responsibilities that come with being unmarried. This sets the stage for the important events that will unfold, as Paul navigates the delicate balance between the spiritual and practical aspects of human relationships.

Throughout the passage, Paul draws upon his deep understanding of Scripture, referencing the teachings of Jesus and the wisdom found in the Old Testament. For example, he cites the creation account in Genesis, where God declares that “it is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18), as he explores the role of marriage in the life of the believer. This holistic approach to addressing the Corinthians’ concerns demonstrates Paul’s commitment to grounding his counsel in the timeless truths of God’s Word.

1 Corinthians 7:1-7

  1. Verse Breakdown:
  2. Verse 1: “Now for the matters you wrote about: ‘It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.’”
  3. Verse 2: “But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”
  4. Verse 3: “The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.”
  5. Verse 4: “The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. The husband yields authority over his own body to his wife in the same way.”
  6. Verse 5: “Do not deprive each other except perhaps by mutual consent and for a time so that you may devote yourselves to prayer. Then come together again so that Satan will not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.”
  7. Verse 6: “I say this as a concession, not as a command.”

  8. Verse 7: “I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God; one has this gift, another has that.”

  9. Commentary:

  10. Verse 1: The Corinthians had written to Paul seeking advice, and here he addresses their concern about sexual relations. Paul initially acknowledges that abstaining from sexual relations can be beneficial, possibly due to the distractions and difficulties that can come with earthly relationships.

  11. Verses 2-7: Paul clarifies that while it is good to avoid sexual immorality, within marriage, sexual relations are not only permissible but beneficial. He emphasizes that each spouse has a responsibility to fulfill the needs of the other. This mutual submission and concern for one another’s needs mirror the sacrificial love that Christ has for the Church (Ephesians 5:25).

  12. Verses 5-6: Here, Paul speaks to the importance of regular intimacy within marriage. He understands that there may be times of abstinence for spiritual reasons, like for prayer, but warns against prolonged periods of separation that could lead to temptation and unfaithfulness.

  13. Verse 7: Paul acknowledges that the ability to live a celibate life, like he did, is a special gift from God. However, he recognizes that not everyone is called to this lifestyle, and each person has their own unique gifts from God.

  14. Relevance and Timeless Message:
    The message in these verses is timeless, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect, mutual responsibility, and mutual fulfillment in marriage. It sheds light on the sacredness of the marital relationship and the importance of meeting each other’s needs physically, emotionally, and spiritually. It also highlights the value of self-control and the acceptance of different gifts and callings from God. Paul’s words on marriage can teach us about love, sacrifice, and the beauty of a Christ-centered relationship, serving as a guide for healthy and fulfilling marriages in any era.

1 Corinthians 7:8-16

Breaking down 1 Corinthians 7:8-16 into sections, we have:

  1. Verse 8: “Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do. Paul addresses the unmarried and widows in this section, suggesting that it may be beneficial for them to remain single, as he himself is. Paul’s choice to remain unmarried was likely due to his dedication to spreading the Gospel without the distractions that can come with marriage. This sentiment reflects Paul’s belief in the value of undivided devotion to the Lord.

  2. Verses 10-11: “To the married I give this command (not I, but the Lord): A wife must not separate from her husband. But if she does, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And a husband must not divorce his wife.”

Paul is referring back to the teachings of Jesus regarding divorce. He emphasizes that divorce should not be a quick or easy solution within a marriage. The commitment and bond between a husband and wife are sacred and should not be broken lightly. Instead, reconciliation and forgiveness are encouraged, as divorce should be seen as a last resort.

  1. Verses 12-13: “To the rest I say this (I, not the Lord): If any brother has a wife who is not a believer and she is willing to live with him, he must not divorce her. And if a woman has a husband who is not a believer and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him.”

This section is noteworthy because it differentiates between advice that is directly from Jesus (as in verses 10-11) and advice that Paul is offering based on his understanding of the Gospel principles. Here, Paul addresses situations where a believer is married to an unbeliever. He advises that as long as the unbelieving spouse is willing to live with the believer, divorce should be avoided. The believer’s example and faith may lead the unbelieving spouse to Christ.

  1. Verses 14-16: “For the unbelieving husband has been sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife has been sanctified through her believing husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but as it is, they are holy. 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. Paul touches on the concept of sanctification within a mixed-belief marriage in this final section. The presence of a believer in the household can bring a level of sanctification to the unbelieving spouse and children. However, if the unbelieving spouse chooses to leave, Paul acknowledges that the believer is not bound to force the continuation of the marriage. The believer is called to live in peace, and if the unbeliever leaves, they should allow it without feeling guilt or obligation to repair the relationship single-handedly. These verses in 1 Corinthians 7 provide guidance on marital relationships, divorce, and faith within marriage, in conclusion. They emphasize the importance of commitment, reconciliation, and living out one’s faith in all circumstances. The overarching message is one of honoring the sanctity of marriage, promoting peace, and being a faithful witness to unbelieving spouses and children. It underscores the significance of mutual respect, love, and understanding within the institution of marriage.

1 Corinthians 7:17-24

The passage in 1 Corinthians 7:17-24 speaks about the importance of remaining in the state in which one was called. This section specifically addresses the issue of whether a person should change their circumstances, such as marital status or employment, after becoming a Christian. Paul instructs the Corinthians in verse 17 to live in accordance with the status they had when they were called. This means that if someone is called to faith while unmarried, they should not feel pressured to get married; similarly, if someone is called while married, they should not seek to divorce. This emphasizes the idea that external circumstances do not determine one’s spiritual standing before God. What matters is one’s obedience to God and living out their faith in whatever circumstances they find themselves in.

The overarching message here is that God is interested in the heart of a person rather than their outward status or situation. This teaching from Paul is in line with the larger themes of the Bible that focus on the transformation of the heart and living a life that is pleasing to God. It also echoes the words of Jesus Himself, who emphasized the importance of inner righteousness over superficial religious observance (Matthew 23:25-28).

Furthermore, this passage challenges us to find contentment and joy in our present circumstances, trusting that God has a purpose for us regardless of our situation. This is reminiscent of the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:11-12, where he speaks of learning to be content in all circumstances through the strength he receives from Christ. 1 Corinthians 7:17-24 serves as a reminder that Christians should focus primarily on faithfully following God in whatever circumstances they find themselves in, whether single or married, slave or free, rich or poor. This passage encourages believers to seek contentment in Christ rather than in external circumstances, and to trust in God’s sovereignty and wisdom in all aspects of their lives.

1 Corinthians 7:25-31

The Apostle Paul addresses the issue of whether it is better for believers to remain single or to marry in 1 Corinthians 7:25-31. He begins by stating that he has no command from the Lord regarding this matter, but he gives his opinion as one who has received mercy from the Lord to be trustworthy. Paul emphasizes the temporary nature of the world and the passing nature of this present age in this section. He advises the Corinthians not to become too attached to the things of this world, including their marital status. Instead, Paul encourages the believers to focus on serving the Lord with an undivided heart, regardless of whether they are married or single.

Paul’s message here is a reminder of the greater spiritual reality and the eternal perspective that Christians should have in all aspects of their lives. This passage underscores the importance of prioritizing the kingdom of God above all else and living in a way that reflects the values of the gospel. Paul challenges believers to view their relationships and circumstances in light of eternity by highlighting the transient nature of worldly things, including marriage.

This passage also ties in with other biblical teachings on marriage and singleness. Jesus speaks about different reasons for remaining single in Matthew 19:10-12, including those who choose to do so for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, expands on this idea by suggesting that both marriage and singleness can be avenues for serving the Lord effectively. Believers should keep their priorities aligned with God’s kingdom and view their circumstances through the lens of eternity, as a reminder from 1 Corinthians 7:25-31. It challenges individuals to live with a sense of urgency and purpose, knowing that the present age is passing away and that ultimately, our allegiance is to the Lord above all else.

1 Corinthians 7:32-35

The text in 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 addresses the issue of the unmarried and focuses on the advantages of remaining single for the purpose of fully dedicating oneself to the Lord. Let’s break down this section further for a deeper understanding of its message. Paul urges believers in verse 32 to consider the undivided devotion they can have to the Lord when they are not entangled in the concerns of married life. This does not diminish the value of marriage but emphasizes the unique opportunities for service and devotion that singleness can offer. Paul himself remained single and dedicated his life to spreading the Gospel, setting an example for others to follow. This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing one’s relationship with God above all else, regardless of marital status.

Moving on to verse 33, Paul explains the difference in focus between married and unmarried individuals. The married person is naturally concerned with the well-being of their spouse and family, while the unmarried can focus solely on serving the Lord without distractions. This does not mean that married individuals cannot serve God effectively, but Paul is pointing out the potential for undivided attention that singleness affords in terms of ministry and devotion. Paul continues to emphasize the benefits of singleness in terms of undivided devotion to the Lord in verses 34 and 35. He mentions how single individuals can be free from worldly concerns and fully committed to serving God, while those who are married have additional responsibilities to attend to. The key message here is not to discourage marriage, as it is a beautiful institution ordained by God, but to highlight the unique opportunities for spiritual growth and service that singleness can provide. Believers are challenged by this passage to consider their priorities and how they can best honor God with their lives. Whether married or single, the overarching message is to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33), prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else. Paul’s teachings in 1 Corinthians 7 underscore the value of living in a way that glorifies God, using our circumstances and choices to further His kingdom and serve others in love.

1 Corinthians 7:36-40

  1. Breakdown of the verse:
  2. “If anyone is worried that he might not be acting honorably toward the virgin he is engaged to…”
  3. “…and if his passions are too strong and he feels he ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning.”
  4. “They should get married.”
  5. “But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will…”
  6. “…and who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin—this man also does the right thing.”
  7. “So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does better.”
  8. “A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes…”

  9. “…but he must belong to the Lord.”

  10. Paul addresses the situation of engagements and the decision to marry in these verses. He acknowledges the reality of strong passions and the desire to marry, especially when engaged to a virgin. Paul advises that if someone feels the need to marry due to strong passions, they are not sinning and should proceed with the marriage. He emphasizes the importance of acting honorably and respecting the marriage commitment.

Paul also highlights the decision-making process, stating that those who have control over their will and have resolved not to marry also do the right thing. He makes it clear that both marriage and celibacy are honorable choices, with neither being superior to the other. Each individual is encouraged to discern what is best for them in their circumstances.

Furthermore, Paul underscores the commitment of marriage, stating that a woman is bound to her husband as long as he is alive. However, if the husband passes away, the woman is free to marry again, emphasizing the importance of the marriage bond in life and death. Importantly, he emphasizes that the new marriage should be with someone who belongs to the Lord, highlighting the significance of shared faith in a marital union.

These verses remind believers of the sanctity of marriage and the importance of honoring commitments in relationships. They also acknowledge the complexities of human emotions and desires, promoting discernment and self-control in decision-making regarding marriage. Paul’s teachings here encourage a thoughtful and prayerful approach to marital decisions, grounded in faith and honoring God in all aspects of life.

  1. Relevant verses:
  2. 1 Corinthians 7:39: “A woman is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry anyone she wishes, but he must belong to the Lord.” This verse reinforces the idea of marriage as a lifelong commitment but also allows for remarriage after the death of a spouse, emphasizing the importance of choosing a partner who shares the faith.
  3. 1 Corinthians 7:32-35: These verses discuss the advantages of remaining unmarried and devoted to the Lord without the distractions of marital responsibilities. Paul presents celibacy as a viable option for some individuals, highlighting the value of undivided devotion to God.

After 1 Corinthians 7

The Apostle Paul addresses various issues concerning marriage, singleness, and relationships within the Christian community in this chapter. He emphasizes the importance of each person embracing their current circumstances with contentment and seeking to honor God in their relationships. Paul encourages believers to prioritize their devotion to the Lord above all else, whether they are married or single. He also provides practical advice on how to navigate the challenges that may arise in marriage and singleness, always pointing towards the ultimate goal of living in a way that glorifies God. Let us remember to seek God’s guidance in all our relationships and decisions as we reflect on the wisdom shared in this chapter. Whether we are married or single, may we strive to honor God in our actions and attitudes, always keeping our focus on Him. In the following chapter, we will delve deeper into the importance of maintaining spiritual discipline and upholding the values of the Christian faith in a world that often challenges our beliefs.