1 Corinthians 7

Commentary

Teachings on Marriage

1Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 3Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband. 4The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife. 5Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency. 6But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment. 7For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.

8I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I. 9But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.

10And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 11But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.

12But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away. 13And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him. 14For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy. 15But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace. 16For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?

Live According to Your Calling

17But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches. 18Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised. 19Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 20Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.

21Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. 22For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant. 23Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men. 24Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

Instructions to Unmarried and Widowed

25Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful. 26I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress, I say, that it is good for a man so to be. 27Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you. 29But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; 30And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; 31And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

32But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: 33But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. 34There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. 35And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

36But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry. 37Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well. 38So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.

39The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. 40But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

King James Bible

Text courtesy of BibleProtector.com.

Principles of Marriage

1 Now concerning the things about which you wrote to me: it is good for a man not to touch a woman. 2 But, because of sexual immoralities, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband. 3 Let the husband render to his wife the affection owed her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. 4 The wife doesn’t have authority over her own body, but the husband. Likewise also the husband doesn’t have authority over his own body, but the wife. 5 Don’t deprive one another, unless it is by consent for a season, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer, and may be together again, that Satan doesn’t tempt you because of your lack of self-control. 6 But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment. 7 Yet I wish that all men were like me. However each man has his own gift from God, one of this kind, and another of that kind.

8 But I say to the unmarried and to widows, it is good for them if they remain even as I am. 9 But if they don’t have self-control, let them marry. For it’s better to marry than to burn.

10 But to the married I command—not I, but the Lord—that the wife not leave her husband 11 (but if she departs, let her remain unmarried, or else be reconciled to her husband), and that the husband not leave his wife.

12 But to the rest I—not the Lord—say, if any brother has an unbelieving wife, and she is content to live with him, let him not leave her. 13 The woman who has an unbelieving husband, and he is content to live with her, let her not leave her husband. 14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified in the husband. Otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. 15 Yet if the unbeliever departs, let there be separation. The brother or the sister is not under bondage in such cases, but God has called us in 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?

Live Your Calling

17 Only, as the Lord has distributed to each man, as God has called each, so let him walk. So I command in all the assemblies. 18 Was anyone called having been circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called in uncircumcision? Let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God. 20 Let each man stay in that calling in which he was called.

21 Were you called being a bondservant? Don’t let that bother you, but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it. 22 For he who was called in the Lord being a bondservant is the Lord’s free man. Likewise he who was called being free is Christ’s bondservant. 23 You were bought with a price. Don’t become bondservants of men. 24 Brothers, let each man, in whatever condition he was called, stay in that condition with God.

The Unmarried and Widowed

25 Now concerning virgins, I have no commandment from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who has obtained mercy from the Lord to be trustworthy. 26 I think that it is good therefore, because of the distress that is on us, that it is good for a man to be as he is. 27 Are you bound to a wife? Don’t seek to be freed. Are you free from a wife? Don’t seek a wife. 28 But if you marry, you have not sinned. If a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have oppression in the flesh, and I want to spare you. 29 But I say this, brothers: the time is short, that from now on, both those who have wives may be as though they had none; 30 and those who weep, as though they didn’t weep; and those who rejoice, as though they didn’t rejoice; and those who buy, as though they didn’t possess; 31 and those who use the world, as not using it to the fullest. For the mode of this world passes away.

32 But I desire to have you to be free from cares. He who is unmarried is concerned for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord; 33 but he who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife. 34 There is also a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world—how she may please her husband. 35 This I say for your own profit; not that I may ensnare you, but for that which is appropriate, and that you may attend to the Lord without distraction.

36 But if any man thinks that he is behaving inappropriately toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of her age, and if need so requires, let him do what he desires. He doesn’t sin. Let them marry. 37 But he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity, but has power over his own heart, to keep his own virgin, does well. 38 So then both he who gives his own virgin in marriage does well, and he who doesn’t give her in marriage does better.

39 A wife is bound by law for as long as her husband lives; but if the husband is dead, she is free to be married to whomever she desires, only in the Lord. 40 But she is happier if she stays as she is, in my judgment, and I think that I also have God’s Spirit.

Principles of Marriage

1 Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good to abstain from sexual relations. a 2 But because there is so much sexual immorality, each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband.

3 The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband. 4 The 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.

5 Do 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. 6 I say this as a concession, not as a command. 7 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.

8 Now to the unmarried and widows I say this: It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am. 9 But if they cannot control themselves, let them marry. For it is better to marry than to burn with passion.

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

12 To 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. 13 And if a woman has an unbelieving husband and he is willing to live with her, she must not divorce him. 14 For 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.

15 But if the unbeliever leaves, let him go. The believing brother or sister is not bound in such cases. God has called you b to live in peace. 16 How 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

17 Regardless, 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. 18 Was 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. 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commandments is what counts.

20 Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called. 21 Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it concern you—but if you can gain your freedom, take the opportunity. 22 For 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.

23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 Brothers, each one should remain in the situation he was in when God called him.

The Unmarried and Widowed

25 Now about virgins, I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. 26 Because of the present c crisis, I think it is good for a man to remain as he is. 27 Are you committed to a wife? Do not seek to be released. Are you free of commitment? Do not look for a wife. 28 But 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.

29 What I am saying, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none; 30 those 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; 31 and those who use the things of this world, as if not dependent on them. For this world in its present form is passing away.

32 I want you to be free from concern. The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord. 33 But the married man is concerned about the affairs of this world, how he can please his wife, 34 and 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.

35 I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but in order to promote proper decorum and undivided devotion to the Lord.

36 However, 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. 37 But 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.

38 So then, he who marries the virgin does well, but he who does not marry her does even better.

39 A 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 40 In 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

Teachings on Marriage

1And concerning the things of which ye wrote to me: good it is for a man not to touch a woman, 2and because of the whoredom let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her proper husband; 3to the wife let the husband the due benevolence render, and in like manner also the wife to the husband; 4the wife over her own body hath not authority, but the husband; and, in like manner also, the husband over his own body hath not authority, but the wife. 5Defraud not one another, except by consent for a time, that ye may be free for fasting and prayer, and again may come together, that the Adversary may not tempt you because of your incontinence; 6and this I say by way of concurrence -- not of command, 7for I wish all men to be even as I myself am; but each his own gift hath of God, one indeed thus, and one thus.

8And I say to the unmarried and to the widows: it is good for them if they may remain even as I am; 9and if they have not continence -- let them marry, for it is better to marry than to burn;

10and to the married I announce -- not I, but the Lord -- let not a wife separate from a husband: 11but and if she may separate, let her remain unmarried, or to the husband let her be reconciled, and let not a husband send away a wife.

12And to the rest I speak -- not the Lord -- if any brother hath a wife unbelieving, and she is pleased to dwell with him, let him not send her away; 13and a woman who hath a husband unbelieving, and he is pleased to dwell with her, let her not send him away; 14for the unbelieving husband hath been sanctified in the wife, and the unbelieving wife hath been sanctified in the husband; otherwise your children are unclean, but now they are holy. 15And, if the unbelieving doth separate himself -- let him separate himself: the brother or the sister is not under servitude in such cases, and in peace hath God called us; 16for what, hast thou known, O wife, whether the husband thou shalt save? or what, hast thou known, O husband, whether the wife thou shalt save?

Live According to Your Calling

17if not, as God did distribute to each, as the Lord hath called each -- so let him walk; and thus in all the assemblies do I direct: 18being circumcised -- was any one called? let him not become uncircumcised; in uncircumcision was any one called? let him not be circumcised; 19the circumcision is nothing, and the uncircumcision is nothing -- but a keeping of the commands of God. 20Each in the calling in which he was called -- in this let him remain;

21a servant -- wast thou called? be not anxious; but if also thou art able to become free -- use it rather; 22for he who is in the Lord -- having been called a servant -- is the Lord's freedman: in like manner also he the freeman, having been called, is servant of Christ: 23with a price ye were bought, become not servants of men; 24each, in that in which he was called, brethren, in this let him remain with God.

Instructions to Unmarried and Widowed

25And concerning the virgins, a command of the Lord I have not; and I give judgment as having obtained kindness from the Lord to be faithful: 26I suppose, therefore, this to be good because of the present necessity, that it is good for a man that the matter be thus: -- 27Hast thou been bound to a wife? seek not to be loosed; hast thou been loosed from a wife? seek not a wife. 28But and if thou mayest marry, thou didst not sin; and if the virgin may marry, she did not sin; and such shall have tribulation in the flesh: and I spare you. 29And this I say, brethren, the time henceforth is having been shortened -- that both those having wives may be as not having; 30and those weeping, as not weeping; and those rejoicing, as not rejoicing; and those buying, as not possessing; 31and those using this world, as not using it up; for passing away is the fashion of this world.

32And I wish you to be without anxiety; the unmarried is anxious for the things of the Lord, how he shall please the Lord; 33and the married is anxious for the things of the world, how he shall please the wife. 34The wife and the virgin have been distinguished: the unmarried is anxious for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit, and the married is anxious for the things of the world, how she shall please the husband. 35And this for your own profit I say: not that I may cast a noose upon you, but for the seemliness and devotedness to the Lord, undistractedly,

36and if any one doth think it to be unseemly to his virgin, if she may be beyond the bloom of age, and it ought so to be, what he willeth let him do; he doth not sin -- let him marry. 37And he who hath stood stedfast in the heart -- not having necessity -- and hath authority over his own will, and this he hath determined in his heart -- to keep his own virgin -- doth well; 38so that both he who is giving in marriage doth well, and he who is not giving in marriage doth better.

39A wife hath been bound by law as long time as her husband may live, and if her husband may sleep, she is free to be married to whom she will -- only in the Lord; 40and she is happier if she may so remain -- according to my judgment; and I think I also have the Spirit of God.

1 Corinthians 7: Guidance on Marriage and Singleness

Concerning Marriage

¹ Now, regarding the issues you wrote about: it is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman. ² But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband. ³ The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise, the wife to her husband.

⁴ The wife does not have authority over her own body but yields it to her husband. In the same way, the husband does not have authority over his own body but yields it to his wife. ⁵ Do not deprive each other except 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.

Instructions for the Unmarried

⁶ I say this as a concession, not as a command. 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.

⁸ Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do. ⁹ But if they cannot control themselves, they should marry, for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.

Instructions for the Married

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

Instructions for the Rest

¹² 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. ¹³ 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.

¹⁴ 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.

¹⁵ But if the unbeliever leaves, let it be so. The brother or sister is not bound in such circumstances; God has called us to live in peace. ¹⁶ How do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or, how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?

Remaining in Your Current Situation

¹⁷ Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.

¹⁸ Was a man already circumcised when he was called? He should not become uncircumcised. Was a man uncircumcised when he was called? He should not be circumcised. ¹⁹ Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. What counts is keeping God’s commands.

²⁰ Each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them. ²¹ Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you; although if you can gain your freedom, do so. ²² For the one who was a slave when called to faith in the Lord is the Lord’s freed person; similarly, the one who was free when called is Christ’s slave. ²³ You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of human beings.

²⁴ Brothers and sisters, each person, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation they were in when God called them.

The Unmarried and the Married

²⁵ Now about virgins: I have no command from the Lord, but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. ²⁶ Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is. ²⁷ Are you pledged to a woman? Do not seek to be released. Are you free from such a commitment? Do not look for a wife. ²⁸ But if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. But those who marry will face many troubles in this life, and I want to spare you this.

The Present Form of This World

²⁹ What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; ³⁰ those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; ³¹ those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.

A Wife’s Duty

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. ³³ But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife—and his interests are divided. ³⁴ An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband.

Final Instructions

³⁵ 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.

³⁶ If anyone is worried that he might not be acting honorably toward the virgin he is engaged to, and if his passions are too strong and he feels he ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. They should get married. ³⁷ But the man who has settled the matter in his own mind, who is under no compulsion but has control over his own will and who has made up his mind not to marry the virgin, this man also does the right thing.

³⁸ So then, he who marries the virgin does right, but he who does not marry her does better.

Conclusion

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. ⁴⁰ In my judgment, she is happier if she stays as she is— and I think that I too have the Spirit of God.

Footnotes

7:1: The discussion begins with a response to questions about marriage and celibacy.

7:8: Paul suggests that remaining single can be advantageous in times of distress.

7:9: Emphasizes that marriage is acceptable but implies the challenges it can bring.

7:15: Offers guidance on how to handle mixed marriages between believers and non-believers.

7:17: Stresses that individuals should remain in their current situations, highlighting God’s sovereignty.

7:29: Points to the urgency of living with an awareness of the transient nature of this world.

7:40: Suggests that remaining single may be preferable for some, indicating the value of personal conviction in matters of life choices.

The F.O.G Commentary:

1What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 7?
2Introduction to 1 Corinthians 7
3Context of 1 Corinthians 7
4Ancient Key Word Study
5Compare & Contrast
61 Corinthians 7 Unique Insights
71 Corinthians 7 Connections to Yeshua
81 Corinthians 7 Scriptural Echoes
91 Corinthians 7 Devotional
10Did You Know

What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 7?

Introduction to 1 Corinthians 7

In this profound chapter, the Apostle Paul addresses pressing questions about marriage, singleness, and devotion to God that the Corinthian believers had written to him about. The Holy Spirit, through Paul, provides divine wisdom that continues to guide believers today through complex relational and spiritual matters. This chapter stands as one of the most comprehensive treatments of marriage and singleness in Scripture, offering timeless principles that transcend cultural boundaries.

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The chapter’s significance lies not only in its practical guidance but in how it reveals God’s heart for human relationships and spiritual devotion. Paul’s pastoral wisdom shines through as he navigates sensitive topics with grace, always pointing to the supreme goal of undivided devotion to the Lord.

Context of 1 Corinthians 7

The immediate context of this chapter follows Paul’s treatment of sexual immorality in chapter 6, where he established the sanctity of the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit. The Corinthian church, situated in a city notorious for its sexual permissiveness, needed clear teaching on how to live holy lives in an unholy culture. Some believers, reacting to the sexual excesses of Corinthian society, had swung to the opposite extreme, questioning whether any sexual relations were appropriate for believers.

Within the broader context of 1 Corinthians, this chapter forms part of Paul’s systematic response to various issues the Corinthian church had raised in their letter to him. The phrase “Now concerning the matters about which you wrote” (1 Corinthians 7:1) signals the beginning of this new section. The chapter’s teachings align with the broader biblical narrative of God’s design for human relationships, echoing creation principles from Genesis while anticipating the eschatological marriage of Christ and His church.

This chapter also reflects the early church’s wrestling with questions of how to live faithfully in light of their expectation of the Messiah’s imminent return. Paul’s guidance balances immediate practical concerns with eternal perspectives, providing wisdom that remains remarkably relevant for believers today.

Ancient Key Word Study

  • Defraud (ἀποστερέω, apostereō) – Used in verse 5, this word carries the meaning of “to deprive someone of something by fraud.” In the context of marriage, it refers to withholding physical intimacy, which Paul considers a violation of the marriage covenant. The word choice emphasizes that marital intimacy is a mutual right and responsibility.
  • Bound (δέω, deō) – Appearing in verses 27 and 39, this term literally means “to bind or tie,” but is used metaphorically for the marriage bond. The same word is used in Roman legal documents for binding contracts, emphasizing the permanence of the marriage covenant.
  • Called (καλέω, kaleō) – This word, used throughout the chapter, carries deep theological significance in Paul’s writings. It refers not just to God’s invitation to salvation but to one’s life situation at the time of conversion. Paul emphasizes that God’s calling can work through any legitimate life situation.
  • Secure (ἀπερισπάστως, aperispastōs) – Found in verse 35, this rare word literally means “without distraction.” It’s Paul’s way of describing undivided devotion to the Lord, painting a picture of someone free from competing concerns.
  • Present Crisis (ἐνεστῶσαν ἀνάγκην, enestōsan anankēn) – This phrase in verse 26 has generated much scholarly discussion. The word ἀνάγκη (anankē) can refer to distress, calamity, or necessity, while ἐνεστῶσαν indicates something present or impending.
  • Concession (συγγνώμη, syngnōmē) – Used in verse 6, this term indicates permission rather than command. It’s the only occurrence of this word in the New Testament, carefully chosen to show Paul is making an allowance rather than stating an ideal.
  • Virgin (παρθένος, parthenos) – This term appears multiple times in the chapter, referring to unmarried individuals of either gender. The word choice emphasizes sexual purity and carries cultural connotations of being available for marriage.
  • Anxiety (μεριμνάω, merimnaō) – Used in verses 32-34, this word describes being pulled in different directions by legitimate concerns. Paul uses it to contrast the divided attention of married life with the focused devotion possible in singleness.
  • Partner (σύμφωνος, symphōnos) – Found in verse 5, this word literally means “harmonious” or “in agreement.” The musical metaphor emphasizes the need for mutual consent in marriage decisions.
  • Time (καιρός, kairos) – Used in verse 29, this refers to appointed time or season rather than chronological time (chronos). It carries eschatological significance, pointing to the brevity of the present age.

Compare & Contrast

  • Verse 1: “It is good for a man not to touch a woman” – Paul quotes the Corinthians’ statement using ἅπτομαι (haptomai) rather than θιγγάνω (thigganō). Haptomai implies intimate physical contact, while thigganō would suggest mere touching. This word choice emphasizes that the discussion concerns sexual relations, not casual physical contact.
  • Verse 4: The Greek construction “The wife does not have authority over her own body” uses ἐξουσιάζω (exousiazō) rather than κυριεύω (kurieuō). This deliberate choice emphasizes stewardship rather than ownership, reflecting the mutual submission Paul teaches elsewhere.
  • Verse 7: “I wish that all were as I myself am” uses θέλω (thelō) rather than βούλομαι (boulomai). Thelō expresses desire without implying divine mandate, carefully preserving both Paul’s personal preference and respect for different divine gifts.
  • Verse 15: “Not enslaved” (οὐ δεδούλωται) rather than “not bound” (οὐ δέδεται) emphasizes freedom from oppressive bondage rather than mere technical release from marriage obligations.
  • Verse 21: “Make use of it” employs χράομαι (chraomai) rather than λαμβάνω (lambanō), suggesting wise stewardship of one’s situation rather than mere acceptance or grasping.
  • Verse 31: “Passing away” uses παράγω (paragō) rather than ἀπέρχομαι (aperchomai), emphasizing the transient nature of worldly patterns rather than mere cessation.
  • Verse 35: “Not to lay any restraint upon you” uses βρόχος (brochos, a noose) rather than δεσμός (desmos, a chain), emphasizing Paul’s desire to avoid any form of manipulation or constraint.
  • Verse 37: “Firmly established” uses ἕστηκεν (hestēken) rather than μένω (menō), emphasizing active resolve rather than passive continuation.

1 Corinthians 7 Unique Insights

This chapter contains several remarkable insights that often go unnoticed in casual reading. The Rabbinical literature of the period generally viewed marriage as obligatory, based on the command to be fruitful and multiply. Paul’s positive view of singleness as a gift (χάρισμα, charisma) represents a radical departure from contemporary Jewish thought. The early church father Clement of Alexandria noted that Paul’s teaching here elevated celibacy from a philosophical choice (as practiced by some Greek schools) to a spiritual calling.

The chapter also reveals a stunning egalitarianism in Paul’s treatment of marriage. In a culture where wives were often viewed as property, Paul’s assertion of mutual authority over bodies (1 Corinthians 7:4) was revolutionary. The symmetrical treatment of husbands and wives throughout the chapter stands in marked contrast to contemporary Greco-Roman household codes.

The concept of “remaining as you are” (verses 17-24) reflects a profound theological insight about God’s ability to work through any legitimate life situation. This principle challenged both the Jewish tendency to require Gentile converts to adopt Jewish customs and the Greco-Roman practice of slaves seeking to change their status. The repeated phrase “remain in the condition in which you were called” suggests a radical contentment based on the sufficiency of God’s grace.

An often-overlooked mystical aspect of the chapter appears in Paul’s discussion of time in verses 29-31. The phrase “the present form of this world is passing away” uses language reminiscent of apocalyptic literature, suggesting that Paul saw marriage and singleness through an eschatological lens. The temporal nature of marriage (ending at death) is contrasted with the eternal nature of devotion to the Lord.

1 Corinthians 7 Connections to Yeshua

This chapter’s teachings about marriage and singleness ultimately point to the Messiah Yeshua in profound ways. The discussion of undivided devotion to the Lord echoes Yeshua’s own teaching about being “eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake” (Matthew 19:12). The spiritual gift of singleness that Paul describes finds its perfect expression in Yeshua’s own life, demonstrating that complete fulfillment is found in relationship with God rather than human relationships.

The chapter’s teaching about marriage reflects the Messiah’s relationship with His church. The mutual submission and care described between husband and wife mirror Yeshua’s sacrificial love for His bride, the church. Even Paul’s teaching about remaining in one’s calling reflects the Messiah’s incarnational ministry – God working through ordinary human circumstances to accomplish His extraordinary purposes.

1 Corinthians 7 Scriptural Echoes

This chapter resonates with numerous biblical passages, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected truth. The teaching about marriage echoes the creation narrative, where God declares it is not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18). The mutual authority of spouses over each other’s bodies recalls the one-flesh union described in Genesis.

Paul’s teaching about remaining in one’s calling echoes Jeremiah’s letter to the exiles (Jeremiah 29:4-7), encouraging them to live faithful lives in their current circumstances. The discussion of marriage and divorce connects with Yeshua’s teaching in Matthew 19:1-12.

The concept of being “anxious about the things of the Lord” recalls Mary choosing the better portion in Luke 10:38-42. The temporal nature of marriage referenced in verse 31 connects with Yeshua’s teaching that in the resurrection people neither marry nor are given in marriage (Matthew 22:30).

1 Corinthians 7 Devotional

This chapter challenges us to evaluate our priorities and commitments in light of eternity. Whether married or single, the central question is: How can I serve the Lord with undivided devotion in my current situation? For singles, this might mean embracing their season of singleness as a gift that allows unique opportunities for ministry and spiritual growth. For married believers, it means learning to balance legitimate family concerns with wholehearted devotion to God.

The chapter’s emphasis on contentment in our calling reminds us that God can work through any life situation. Rather than constantly seeking to change our circumstances, we’re encouraged to ask how we can glorify God right where we are. This might mean finding joy in singleness, showing Christ’s love in a difficult marriage, or serving God faithfully in challenging work situations.

Paul’s teaching about the temporary nature of earthly relationships should prompt us to hold them loosely while investing in eternal matters. This doesn’t mean neglecting our relationships, but rather viewing them through the lens of eternity and using them as opportunities to display God’s love and grace.

Did You Know

  • The phrase “present crisis” in verse 26 may refer to a famine that hit Corinth around AD 51, which would have made it difficult to support a family.
  • The term “virgin” in this chapter doesn’t just refer to young unmarried women – it could include older unmarried individuals of both genders, reflecting a broader concept than our modern usage.
  • Paul’s teaching about slaves remaining in their condition was radical for its time – rather than promoting revolution, it encouraged finding spiritual freedom in any circumstance, much like Joseph in Egypt.
  • The symmetrical treatment of husband and wife’s marital rights was unprecedented in ancient literature, challenging both Jewish and Greco-Roman patriarchal assumptions.
  • The concept of mutual consent for temporary abstinence (verse 5) stood in stark contrast to ancient practices where husbands often unilaterally decided such matters.
  • The word “conjugal rights” in verse 3 literally translates as “debt” or “obligation,” emphasizing the binding nature of marital commitments.
  • Paul’s positive view of singleness challenged both Jewish traditions that viewed marriage as mandatory and Greek philosophical views that denigrated marriage entirely.
  • The phrase “present form of this world is passing away” uses theatrical terminology, literally meaning “the scene of this world is changing.”
  • The “gift” (charisma) Paul mentions in verse 7 uses the same word he uses elsewhere for spiritual gifts, elevating both marriage and singleness to divine callings.
  • The permission for remarriage of widows (verse 39) was significant in a culture where some Jewish sects discouraged widow remarriage.

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Jean Paul Joseph
Jean Paul Joseph

After a dramatic early morning encounter with King Jesus, I just couldn’t put my Bible down. The F.O.G took a hold of me and this website was born. Learn more about the F.O.G.

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