📅 February 24: 1 Corinthians 7: Guidance on Christian Living

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February 24: 1 Corinthians 7: Guidance on Christian Living

Introduction

Today, we unearth the treasures hidden in the 7th chapter of Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. It’s an important part of Christian scripture as it provides guidance on widely contested matters related to marital status and sex in marriage.

Unveiling the Principles of Marriage (v. 1-7)

In these verses, Paul teaches that it’s a gift from God to remain single and abstain from sexual activity. However, to those married, the gift manifests in a shared covenant of unity and mutual sexual fulfillment within the sanctity of marriage.

Key Verse: “But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.” - 1 Corinthians 7:2

The Balance between Marriage and Singleness (v. 25-40)

Paul further elaborates on the call to singleness or marriage, providing practical advice. He maintains the focus on serving God zealously, regardless of marital status.

Key Verse: “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. But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife.” - 1 Corinthians 7:32-33

### Key Themes and Reflections

1 Corinthians 7 challenges both married and single Christians to live a devoted life to God. It articulates that marriage is a divine institution, and singlehood can be a divine calling. These teachings encourage a balanced perspective on both states, ensuring they serve God’s purpose.

Today’s Application

Reflect on your relationships and individual responsibilities. Whether you’re single or married, Paul’s teachings remind us that our ultimate purpose is to glorify God and be committed to His work.

Hidden Gem

Did you know Paul’s advice on marriage was counter-cultural for his time? The Greco-Roman culture saw marriage as a social duty, making Paul’s affirmation of singlehood revolutionary.

Reflective Q&A

How can we apply Paul’s teachings on marriage and singleness in today’s society?
A: By viewing our relationships and life decisions through the lens of our call to serve God.

What could be the challenges to living out these teachings in our contemporary world?
A: Societal expectations, personal desires, and cultural differences could make it challenging to apply these teachings. But, with God’s guidance, we can navigate these obstacles.

What do Paul’s teachings on marriage and singleness say about celibacy?
A: Paul acknowledges that celibacy is a divine gift, not a mandate. It serves a specific spiritual purpose, particularly facilitating undivided commitment to God.

Join the Discussion

Share your reflections on 1 Corinthians 7. How have Paul’s teachings shaped your perspective on marriage and singleness?

See You Tomorrow in 1 Corinthians 8-9 :

We’ll delve into food offered to idols and the freedom we have in Christ. As we progress, we’ll continuously challenge ourselves to apply God’s Word to our daily living.

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1Corinthians 7
The Corinthian Ecclesia was split by many problems, and particularly those relating to the covenant of marriage. The city was a Sodom and Gomorrah of those days, similar to the loose world today. Family issues were one of the conflicts affecting the ecclesia, and for which they sought Paul’s advice. His response has been recorded by inspiration for the direction of the ecclesia in every generation. In a most detailed manner, he shows the true responsibilities which should be undertaken by both partners to a marriage, in order for it to reveal the divine principle “as in the beginning.” • He speaks of • [1] Instructions concerning marriage: vv. 1-17. There is the need for mutual consideration, and for the support of each other. It is a modern attitude to seek for self-fulfillment, whereas marriage is an illustration of the principle of sacrifice and for the honour of Yahweh. Paul states the facts clearly and frankly, and yet with such delicacy as to avoid offence. His teaching is based on that of the Lord (Mat. 5:31-32; 19:4-12), to which he directs the attention of his readers. Both husband and wife are required to uphold their particular responsibilities to ensure that all is done to strengthen the bonds of marriage. Under certain conditions, celibacy for Christ’s sake is a “beautiful” thing (1Cor. 7:1); in other circumstances it is “better” to marry (v. 9). Paul insists that the basis of marriage is proper care and each should respect the desires of the other in this regard (vv. 3-5). He taught that when married life is governed by divine principles, the sensuous impulse is controlled and refined, and instead of being the source of untold curses to mankind, it becomes the expression of deep and intimate affection. Nowhere does he advocate a single life for all believers, but one that assumes the responsibilities of a marriage union, either in celibacy toward Christ (vv. 32-34) as his Bride, or in sacrifice one to another, and thus emulating his example in marriage (vv. 3-5). Then Paul deals with • [2] Regarding circumcision and slavery: vv. 18-24. Here the apostle shows that certain rituals and practices were to be accepted, so that the fulness of the Christ-body might be developed. • [3] Regarding virgins and marriage in view of social distress: vv. 25-40. His instructions in this section concern the third matter about which his opinion was sought. Since the “present distress” of AD70 was developing, he urged care in accepting responsibilities (as the Lord Yahshua also said of motherhood in Mat. 24:19), because of the crisis about to face the brethren. In all these matters Paul states the facts clearly and frankly, and yet with such delicacy as to avoid offence. Further comments are available in the Logos book “Preparing for Marriage.” — Logos