1 Corinthians 7 - Introduction

Instructions Concerning Marriage and Abstinence from Marriage (7:1-40).

The thought of being united with Christ's body and the grievously harmful effect of being then united with a prostitute leads on to the consideration of marriage. Does marriage also mar the union with Christ? Paul's answer is that while the single state might be preferable for certain reasons, such as greater usefulness in Christ's service, it is no sin to marry (1 Corinthians 7:36). For many it is indeed to be seen as commanded because of their uncontrollable sexual appetites (1 Corinthians 7:2). Thus it does no harm to the relationship of men with Christ, and in many cases it is vitally necessary.

Scripture emphasises that marriage is honourable in all if the participants are pure (Hebrews 13:4). Its initial purpose was for the procreation of the human race (Genesis 1:28) and for companionship and mutual cooperation between man and woman (Genesis 2:18) and it is thus a part of the fulfilling of God's purposes. It is also ordained for the pleasure it gives to men and women (Proverbs 5:15). But Paul then adds that for some it is better not to marry because such a state means that the person can give full attention to the Lord, and because difficult times were coming in which not having to be concerned about a marital partner may be helpful.

However it should be noted that there is no suggestion that celibacy is recommended for its own sake. Among ancient religions, and possibly among many of the Corinthians, the ascetic, the man who abstained from all that men desire, was admired and feted. The more he brought suffering on himself the greater his reputation. This was partly because such religions saw the flesh as evil and therefore saw the ascetic as punishing the flesh and separating himself from evil and becoming more ‘spiritual'. But that is never taught in Scripture. Some men of God did live like that but they are never specially commended for it. The point here is availability to serve the Lord more fully, not some idea of punishing the flesh.

A parallel question raised is as to whether sexual relations harm the spiritual life. Does normal married life, and normal sexual relations, indicate that the men or women involved are somehow spiritually lacking? Paul's answer is ‘no'. It is part of what human beings were before the fall. There may be reasons for abstaining for a time, and there may be good reasons for some not to marry at all if God has so made them that they can do so without running the risk of sexual misbehaviour, so as to better serve Christ, but there is no question of sexual relations within marriage damaging the spiritual life if engaged in with self-control.

But this chapter is also the commencement of Paul's answers to questions specifically raised by his visitors through a letter brought on behalf of the church. This is the first of them. Notice the places where Paul says ‘concerning ---.' These indicate that he is now dealing with their specific questions (1 Corinthians 7:25; 1Co 8:1; 1 Corinthians 12:1; 1 Corinthians 16:1; 1 Corinthians 16:12).