1 Corinthians 7 -- To Marry Or Not

Paul takes up questions that the Corinthians have written him about, and the first regards marriage.  My commentary noted that where possible he used Jesus’ own words to reply.  If Jesus hadn’t spoken directly about it, Paul tried his best to answer in a way that fit with everything Jesus taught.  Paul was writing to three different groups:  Christians married to other Christians, Christians married to non-Christians, and unmarried Christians.

To the first group, Paul said to remain married.  Don’t divorce simply because it seems you could serve God better by being single.  He also addressed the physical – If you can’t control yourself, then marry, for a Christian should not take part in sexual sin.

Regarding the second group, a couple may have both been non-Christians and married, and later one of the two became a Christian.  The question arose about whether to remain married to a non-Christian or divorce.  Paul’s counsel was to remain in the same calling he or she was in when the Lord saved them.

For unmarried Christians, Paul asked them to consider several factors.  Consider the present circumstances and whether the additional demands of marriage could be handled.  Also, they should face the responsibilities honestly, for a new marriage partner and possibly children could distract them from serving God.  They needed to be sure they could handle that.   “It is possible to please both the Lord and your mate, if you are yielded to Christ and obeying the Word,” my commentary reassured.

The third factor is to remember that each situation is unique.  “It takes more than two Christian people to make a happy marriage.  Not every marriage that is scriptural is necessarily sensible.”  Finally, he said, “Remember that marriage is for life.”  “Marriage must be built on something sturdier than good looks, money, romance, excitement, and social acceptance.  There must be Christian commitment, character, and maturity.  There must be a willingness to grow, to learn from each other, to forgive and forget, to minister to one another.”

Father, in my singleness, I pray that You will guide me regarding marriage.  Help me to take all of this to heart.  If it is in Your will that I marry, please help me to find her and treat her as Your precious gift to me.  Remind me, too, that You will be gifting me to her as well.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford