1 Corinthians 7
BSB1 Now for the matters you wrote about: It is good to abstain from sexual relations. 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 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? 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. 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 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, 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, 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. 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.
Study Notes — 1 Corinthians 7
- Chapter Summary
- Context for the Chapter
- Heart Application
- What Does This Chapter Mean?
- Voices from the Church
- Outline for Preaching
- Core Doctrines
- Lessons from 1 Corinthians 7
- Themes from 1 Corinthians 7
- Questions for Meditation
- Detailed Chapter Outline
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Top Cross References
- Sermons on 1 Corinthians 7
- Matthew Henry Commentary
- What Do You Notice?
Chapter Summary
In 1 Corinthians 7, the Apostle Paul addresses several issues related to marriage, singleness, and spiritual gifts. He begins by discussing the relationship between husbands and wives, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and submission (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). Paul also provides guidance for those who are unmarried, encouraging them to remain in their current state and to use their time and energy for the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:8, 32-35). Additionally, Paul discusses the use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing the importance of using them for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 7:7). Throughout the chapter, Paul emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and of using one's gifts and circumstances for His glory.
Context for the Chapter
This chapter is part of the larger book of 1 Corinthians, which was written by the Apostle Paul to address various issues within the church at Corinth. The chapter fits into the larger narrative of the book, which emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God and of using one's gifts and circumstances for His glory. The chapter also connects to the broader biblical narrative, which emphasizes the importance of relationships, community, and spiritual growth.
Heart Application
As believers, we are called to apply the principles of this chapter to our own lives. This means being content with our current circumstances, using our gifts and talents for the Lord, and seeking to please Him in all that we do. It also means cultivating mutual respect and submission in our relationships, whether marital or otherwise, and using our spiritual gifts for the edification of the church.
What Does This Chapter Mean?
This chapter is about how to live a life that pleases God, whether you are married or single. It talks about the importance of mutual respect and submission in marriage, and how to use your gifts and talents for the Lord. As Paul says in 1 Corinthians 7:24, each one should remain in the situation they were in when God called them, and use their time and energy for the Lord.
Voices from the Church
“The Lord has instituted marriage as a remedy for our inborn propensity to vice, and as a means of promoting purity and chastity.”
— John Calvin
“The gift of singleness is a great blessing, for it allows the believer to devote themselves fully to the Lord and to use their time and energy for His service.”
— Charles Spurgeon
Outline for Preaching
- Introduction to Marriage and Singleness (1 Corinthians 7:1-7) — The chapter begins by discussing the relationship between husbands and wives, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and submission.
- Guidance for the Unmarried (1 Corinthians 7:8-9) — Paul provides guidance for those who are unmarried, encouraging them to remain in their current state and to use their time and energy for the Lord.
- Teaching on Divorce and Remarriage (1 Corinthians 7:10-16) — The chapter discusses the issue of divorce and remarriage, emphasizing the importance of remaining in one's current state and of using one's gifts and talents for the Lord.
- The Use of Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 7:7) — The chapter discusses the use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing the importance of using them for the edification of the church.
- Conclusion and Final Thoughts (1 Corinthians 7:17-40) — The chapter concludes by emphasizing the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and of using one's gifts and circumstances for His glory.
Core Doctrines
- The Doctrine of Marriage
- This chapter teaches that marriage is a sacred institution, ordained by God, and that it is to be characterized by mutual respect and submission between husbands and wives.
- The Doctrine of Singleness
- The chapter teaches that singleness is a gift from God, and that it is to be used for His service and glory.
- The Doctrine of Spiritual Gifts
- The chapter teaches that spiritual gifts are to be used for the edification of the church, and that they are to be exercised in a way that is pleasing to God.
- The Doctrine of Contentment
- The chapter teaches that believers are to be content with their current circumstances, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord.
Lessons from 1 Corinthians 7
- The Importance of Mutual Respect — The chapter teaches that mutual respect and submission are essential components of a healthy marriage, and that these principles can be applied to all of our relationships.
- The Value of Singleness — The chapter teaches that singleness is a gift from God, and that it can be used for His service and glory.
- The Use of Spiritual Gifts — The chapter teaches that spiritual gifts are to be used for the edification of the church, and that they are to be exercised in a way that is pleasing to God.
- The Importance of Contentment — The chapter teaches that believers are to be content with their current circumstances, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord.
- The Centrality of Christ — The chapter teaches that Christ is the ultimate example of selfless love and sacrifice, and that we are to follow His example in all that we do.
Themes from 1 Corinthians 7
- Marriage and Singleness — The chapter discusses the relationship between husbands and wives, and provides guidance for those who are unmarried.
- Spiritual Gifts — The chapter teaches that spiritual gifts are to be used for the edification of the church, and that they are to be exercised in a way that is pleasing to God.
- Contentment — The chapter teaches that believers are to be content with their current circumstances, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord.
- The Centrality of Christ — The chapter teaches that Christ is the ultimate example of selfless love and sacrifice, and that we are to follow His example in all that we do.
- The Importance of Living a Life that Pleases God — The chapter teaches that believers are to seek to please God in all that they do, whether in their relationships or in their use of spiritual gifts.
Questions for Meditation
- What does the chapter teach about the relationship between husbands and wives, and how can I apply this to my own life?
- How can I use my gifts and talents for the Lord, whether I am married or single?
- What does the chapter teach about the use of spiritual gifts, and how can I exercise my gifts in a way that is pleasing to God?
- How can I cultivate contentment in my current circumstances, and use my time and energy for the Lord?
- What are some ways that I can seek to please God in all that I do, whether in my relationships or in my use of spiritual gifts?
Detailed Chapter Outline
1. Introduction to Marriage and Singleness (1 Corinthians 7:1-7)
| 7:1 | The chapter begins by discussing the relationship between husbands and wives, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and submission. |
| 7:2 | Paul teaches that each man should have his own wife, and each woman her own husband, in order to avoid immorality. |
2. Guidance for the Unmarried (1 Corinthians 7:8-9)
| 7:8 | Paul provides guidance for those who are unmarried, encouraging them to remain in their current state and to use their time and energy for the Lord. |
| 7:9 | Paul teaches that if a person cannot control their passions, it is better for them to marry than to burn with desire. |
3. Teaching on Divorce and Remarriage (1 Corinthians 7:10-16)
| 7:10 | Paul teaches that a wife should not leave her husband, and that a husband should not divorce his wife. |
| 7:11 | If a wife does leave her husband, she should remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband. |
4. The Use of Spiritual Gifts (1 Corinthians 7:7)
| 7:7 | Paul teaches that each person has their own gift from God, and that they should use it for the edification of the church. |
5. Conclusion and Final Thoughts (1 Corinthians 7:17-40)
| 7:17 | Paul teaches that each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord. |
| 7:24 | Paul emphasizes the importance of being content with one's current circumstances, and of using one's gifts and talents for the Lord. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the chapter teach about marriage and singleness?
The chapter teaches that marriage is a sacred institution, ordained by God, and that it is to be characterized by mutual respect and submission between husbands and wives. It also teaches that singleness is a gift from God, and that it can be used for His service and glory (1 Corinthians 7:1-9).
What does the chapter teach about spiritual gifts?
The chapter teaches that spiritual gifts are to be used for the edification of the church, and that they are to be exercised in a way that is pleasing to God (1 Corinthians 7:7).
What does the chapter teach about contentment?
The chapter teaches that believers are to be content with their current circumstances, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:24).
Top Cross References
| Reference | Connection | |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 1 Corinthians 7:1 → Genesis 2:24 | The chapter references the creation account in Genesis, where it is taught that a man leaves his father and mother and is united to his wife (Genesis 2:24). |
| 2 | 1 Corinthians 7:7 → 1 Peter 4:10 | The chapter teaches that each person has their own gift from God, and that they should use it for the edification of the church, which is also taught in 1 Peter 4:10. |
| 3 | 1 Corinthians 7:10 → Matthew 19:3-6 | The chapter references the teaching of Jesus on divorce and remarriage, where it is taught that a man should not divorce his wife unless there is immorality (Matthew 19:3-6). |
| 4 | 1 Corinthians 7:17 → Acts 17:26 | The chapter teaches that each person should remain in the situation they were in when God called them, which is also taught in Acts 17:26. |
| 5 | 1 Corinthians 7:24 → Philippians 4:11 | The chapter teaches that believers are to be content with their current circumstances, and to use their gifts and talents for the Lord, which is also taught in Philippians 4:11. |
| 6 | 1 Corinthians 7:32 → Matthew 19:12 | The chapter teaches that it is good for a man to remain unmarried, which is also taught in Matthew 19:12. |
| 7 | 1 Corinthians 7:35 → 1 Timothy 5:5 | The chapter teaches that the unmarried person is concerned about the things of the Lord, which is also taught in 1 Timothy 5:5. |
| 8 | 1 Corinthians 7:39 → Romans 7:2 | The chapter teaches that a wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives, which is also taught in Romans 7:2. |
| 9 | 1 Corinthians 7:40 → Proverbs 19:14 | The chapter teaches that it is better to remain in one's current state, which is also taught in Proverbs 19:14. |
| 10 | 1 Corinthians 7:1-40 → Ephesians 5:22-33 | The chapter teaches about the relationship between husbands and wives, and the use of spiritual gifts, which is also taught in Ephesians 5:22-33. |
Sermons on 1 Corinthians 7
| Sermon | Description | |
|---|---|---|
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(Biblical Manhood) -Evening Banquet by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the speaker expresses his deep concern for the upbringing of his young children and acknowledges his own shortcomings. He emphasizes the importance of studying and |
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Be a Man (At Home and at Church) by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of bringing every aspect of our lives under the lordship of Christ. He highlights the need to bring our thought life, eyes, e |
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Heart to Heart Talk on Marriage by Jim Cymbala | In this sermon, the speaker starts by sharing a personal anecdote about watching a nature channel and being disturbed by the aggressive behavior of wild dogs in South Africa. He th |
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From Negative to Positive by Norman Grubb | In this sermon, the speaker discusses the concept of the "father's cup" and its connection to the devil. He emphasizes that going far in understanding this concept means recognizin |
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(Poland) Jesus Loves Sinners by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher shares powerful testimonies of individuals who were living on the streets and trapped in addiction. Through the love of Jesus Christ, they experienced |
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Pride by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher addresses the issue of divorce and the breaking up of families, stating that it is a plague that is sweeping the church. The preacher emphasizes the im |
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(1 Corinthians) ch.7:25-8:13 by Zac Poonen | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that the time we live in is short and that the world is not our permanent home. He urges believers to prioritize serving the Lord over their |
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The Healing of the Home by David Wilkerson | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of using a soft answer to turn away wrath and bring healing to the home. He criticizes those who rely on loudness as a badge |
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Central Baptist Church by Paul Washer | In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of bringing every aspect of our lives under the lordship of Christ. He highlights the need to bring our thought life, eyes, e |
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Freedom From Masterbation and Sensuality by Tim Conway | This sermon emphasizes the need to flee from sin, particularly addressing the issue of justifying masturbation as not a sin. It highlights the importance of seeking biblical guidan |
Summary of Matthew Henry Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7
In this chapter, the Apostle Paul provides guidance on various issues related to marriage, singleness, and the use of spiritual gifts. He emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and submission in marriage, and encourages those who are unmarried to remain in their current state and to use their time and energy for the Lord. Paul also discusses the use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing the importance of using them for the edification of the church. Throughout the chapter, Paul emphasizes the importance of living a life that is pleasing to God, and of using one's gifts and circumstances for His glory. As Matthew Henry notes, 'The apostle's design is to show that the married state is not to be avoided, but to be sanctified, and that the single state is not to be despised, but to be improved.' Read the full unabridged Matthew Henry Commentary →
What Do You Notice?
The Importance of Mutual Respect
The chapter emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and submission between husbands and wives, with each partner seeking to please the other (1 Corinthians 7:3-5).
The Value of Singleness
Paul provides guidance for those who are unmarried, encouraging them to remain in their current state and to use their time and energy for the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:8, 32-35).
The Use of Spiritual Gifts
The chapter discusses the use of spiritual gifts, emphasizing the importance of using them for the edification of the church (1 Corinthians 7:7).