Home

Nazarene Commentary 2000©

21^st Century Paraphrase of the Hebrew Scriptures© –
21^st Century Version of the Christian Scriptures© [NCMM]

THE FIRST LETTER TO THE CORINTHIANS

CHAPTER SEVEN:
UNITY REGARDING CELIBACY AND MARRIAGE

Theme Verse: 38

1 Corinthians 7:1-7 – Question of Celibacy

1CO7:1 Now concerning the matters you wrote: 302 it is alright for a man not to be intimate with a woman. 303

302	Now concerning the matters you wrote: Perhaps a letter delivered by a member of the Chloe family.

303

It is alright for a man not to be intimate with a woman: Or, KJV: it is good for a man not to touch a woman; BEC: not to have sex relations with a woman; MOF: it is indeed an excellent thing for a man to have no intercourse with a woman; TCN: it would be well for a man to remain single. Among the Jews marriage was the norm and virtually all got married, often quite young (12-14). The Greeks of certain philosophical persuasions viewed sex with a woman as anathema, though homosexuality was not. Some of the great Greek philosophers were homosexual as they considered the fleshly or material as the product of an evil demon. This background may be the reason for raising this question. The Greek for “intimate” here is actually “touching.” [Genesis 20:6]

1CO7:2 However, because of [so much] sexual immorality, let each man possess his own wife, 304 and each woman her own husband. 305

304

Because of [so much] sexual immorality, let each man possess his own wife: Or, fornication; woman. See notes on PORNEIA at 1 Corinthians 5:1. The phrase could read, “Because of so much prostitution…” Because of the intense sinfulness of the city of Corinth, the Christians were surrounded by immorality in every form, something like Sodom. For this reason Paul recommends – for self-protection – that Christian singles get married. He will go on to also encourage celibacy. Compare the history of the Jews at Jeremiah 5:7. [1 Thessalonians 4:3]

305

Each woman her own husband: Or male. Like other languages there is no specific word for husband or wife in Greek. See also the Hebrew at Genesis 2:24. The context determines the usage. Marriage was instituted by God Himself. [Genesis 2:24] Marriage is encouraged in both the Hebrew and Christian Bibles. [Proverbs 5:19; Hebrews 13:4]

1CO7:3 Let the husband render his due to his wife, 306 and the wife likewise to her husband. 307

306

Let the husband render his due to his wife: Or, due benevolence, conjugal rights, intercourse of affection. Among certain later Jews the law on sexual intercourse among the married was explicitly laid out: the married Rabbi must have intercourse with his wife each week before the beginning of Shabbat. [Exodus 21:10]

307	The wife likewise to her husband: The Christian wife does not use sexual favor as a way of controlling her husband.

1CO7:4 The wife has no authority over her own body, 308 and likewise the husband has no authority over his own body. 309

308	The wife has no authority over her own body: Or, WMS: the wife does not have the right to do as she pleases with her own body; NOR: sole authority.

309

The husband has no authority over his own body: This may be an area in which the husband is actually in subjection to the woman’s authority over his body. [Ephesians 5:21] The sexual energy of couples is not always equal, though generally the man has more, there are women whose needs exceed those of her husband.

1CO7:5 Do not deprive one another of [the sexual due], 310 unless there is mutual consent during an appropriate season, 311 to allow more time for prayer. 312 Then come together again [sexually] so that you both might not be tempted by the Slanderer 313 because of your lack of self-control. 314

310

Do not deprive one another of [the sexual due]: Or, KJV: defraud ye not one the other; MOF: do not withhold sexual intercourse from one another; NAS: stop depriving one another; WMS: you husbands and wives must stop refusing each other what is due. When this happens the marriage is in great danger. The sexual due may be a healthy barometer of how the marriage is doing.

311

Unless there is mutual consent during an appropriate season: Or, LAM: except when both of you consent to do so; MON: unless it is only temporary and by mutual consent. Under the Law of Moses there were times or periods during which the male could not share the marital bed. [Exodus 19:15] Also men who went into battle were not to have intercourse with their wives. The most famous example is Uriah, who refused to bed his wife Bathsheba. [2 Samuel 11:9-11]

312

To allow more time for prayer: The KJV adds “fasting” though it is not supported by earlier mss. This statement is almost beyond comprehension in a modern world that may not place as much importance on prayer as the early Church. Paul’s word indicates the extreme importance of prayer on both the husband and wife’s part. It seems likely Paul means an extended period of special prayerful meditation, perhaps including study.

313	Then come together again [sexually] so that you both might not be tempted by the Slanderer: Or, “the Satan.” If this period of imposed celibacy within the marriage be too long, it may make one of the partnership weak or temptable. [2 Corinthians 2:11; 1 Thessalonians 3:5]

314	Because of your lack of self-control: Or, self-rule, self-regulation. The “self-control” may be a weakness of one of the marriage partners, or their failure in remaining balanced in this “mutual consent.”

1CO7:6 However, I say this to you according to my opinion and not as a command. 315

315

According to my opinion and not as a command: Or, KNX: I am not imposing a rule. Paul is say something similar several times in this context. He always makes it clear when it is his opinion or a command. [1 Corinthians 7:25; 2 Corinthians 8:8] We may take what he has said from verse 1 as part of this opinion. This does not mean Paul’s opinion is to be rejected. Marriage varies widely among different cultures and each social circumstance must find its own balance within Christian parameters. Paul’s use of “command” shows he had the apostolic authority to render such judgments if he felt the pressure of God’s Pneuma. Compare Titus 2:15 and Hebrews 13:17.

1CO7:7 But I wished that all persons were just as I am – [celibate] 316 – though each person possesses his own gift from God, 317 one this way and another that way. 318

316	I wished that all persons were just as I am – [celibate]: Or, GDS: I should like to have everyone be just as myself. Some think Paul was a widower who did not remarry.

317	Each person possesses his own gift from God: Or, charisma, proper gift, own particular gift. Paul echoes the Nazarene here. Jesus also encouraged celibacy in language similar to Paul’s. [Matthew 19:7-11]

318	One this way and another that way: That is, one leading to marriage, another to celibacy.

1 Corinthians 7:8-9 – Celibacy or Marriage

1CO7:8 Now I tell the unmarried and widows: 319 it would be excellent if they would also remain just as I am – [celibate]. 320

319

Unmarried and widows: Widows are mentioned over 100 times in the Bible, the first occurrence at Genesis 38:11 and most often in Deuteronomy [14]. In the Christian Bible widows are mentioned most often in 1Timothy. God will be the judge in the case of widows. [Psalm 68:5; 146:9] Members of the Church have a sacred responsibility to care for widows. [James 1:27]

320

Remain just as I am – [celibate]: Or, unmarried. By this Paul most likely also means “celibate” – not engaging in sexual intercourse. [Isaiah 56:4, 5; Matthew 19:12] Paul warns in 1 Timothy 4:1-3 that a future apostasy will be characterized by “forbidding marriage.” Paul nowhere gives such a command. He recommends singleness or celibacy as the “better” course for those who can do it, just as Jesus did.

1CO7:9 But, if they do not possess the inner strength of self-control, 321 let them marry. For it is better to marry than to be continually set on fire. 322

321	The inner strength of self-control: Or, BER: cannot restrain their passions; BEC: can’t control yourselves. [1 Thessalonians 4:4; 1 Timothy 5:11] Sexual drive is not equal among all persons, and Paul does not condemn such but just recommends marriage.

322

It is better to marry than to be continually set on fire: Or, KJV: than to burn; RSV: aflame with passion; TCN: consumed with passion; PME: tortured by unsatisfied desire; NOR: passionate desire. [1 Thessalonians 4:4, 5] Sexual desire is a natural product of bodily hormones and the reproductive organs. God’s command to the first couple was, “Become fruitful and fill the earth.” [Genesis 1:28; Isaiah 45:18] This was repeated to Noah’s three sons and their wives after the Great Deluge. [Genesis 9:7] Some cultures, like the Islamic Arabs, demand their women be fully clothed save for their eyes, lest men become inflamed by the glance of exposed flesh. Certain tribes segregate men and women, others circumcise young girls. In the Proverbs the young man of little experience is cautioned when he goes into the city to not look to right or left, but straight ahead in front. [Proverbs 4-6] Thus, some Hasidic Jews are bent forward and can still be seen in old age walking with their eyes fixed on the ground ahead of them. Modern youths in much of the world at the beginning of the 3rd Millennium are exposed to a bombardment of sexual images and thoughts, making it nearly impossible to escape.

1 Corinthians 7:10-11 – Separation

1CO7:10 But now to those married persons I announce this 323 – not I but the Master 324 – a wife should not separate from her husband. 325

323	To those married persons I announce this: Or, command, instructions.

324	Not I but the Master: Here Paul makes it clear that he is not just giving his own opinion but that this is “the Master’s commandment.” [CON] Paul may base this on Matthew 5:32.

325

A wife should not separate from her husband: Or, depart, leave. Paul does not speak in absolute or unqualified terms. There are those situations that may endanger a woman in which she should leave or separate from her husband even though he may not have committed adultery. Or, her children may be endangered and she ought to rescue them to a safe place. Women have been abused by violent and ignorant men throughout the ages. Each Christian woman will have to be guided by her own conscience when matters in the home become so severe that her life or physical well-being is in danger.

1CO7:11 However, should she separate let her remain unmarried 326 or otherwise be reconciled to her husband. 327 Also, a husband should not leave his wife. 328

326	Should she separate let her remain unmarried: Or, remain single. It would seem that Paul is not considering a case where the husband is adulterous. There is such a thing as a “treacherous” separation where the woman has a hidden agenda. [Jeremiah 3:20]

327	Be reconciled to her husband: A brief separation may bring the husband back to his senses allowing the wife to “make up” and return to peaceful relations. Should the couple need wise and Biblical counsel they could seek the help of experienced elders.

328

A husband should not leave his wife: Or, not put away, not divorce. Though some versions use the word “divorce” it does not occur in the Greek. Paul means separation here. Though the Jewish law allowed men to divorce, it did not permit women to divorce. It was Jesus himself who gave godly women the option of divorce in Mark 10:12. The only reason for a husband to divorce his wife would be if she had become adulterous.

1 Corinthians 7:12-16 – Unbelieving Mates

1CO7:12 Now, to the rest, I – not the Master 329 – tell you: if any brother has an unbelieving wife 330 who thinks positively about continuing to dwell together with him, 331 let him not separate from her. 332

329	Now, to the rest, I – not the Master: Paul now makes it clear what follows is his opinion and not a commandment from the Master.

330

If any brother has an unbelieving wife: Or, non-Christian. Paul’s first case is one of a man who has become a Christian while his wife has not accepted the faith. Though Paul will say that in his opinion the man ought not leave his wife, it is interesting to note the words of the Nazarene at Luke 18:29.

331	Who thinks positively about continuing to dwell together with him: Or, pleased to dwell, willing to live with, agrees to live with.

332	Let him not separate from her: Though some use “divorce” the Greek is “letting go” or leave. Nowhere in this context does Paul mention adultery as a reason for divorce. So it would seem he has separation in mind without remarriage.

1CO7:13 Also, a wife 333 who has an unbelieving husband who thinks positively about continuing to dwell together with her, let her not separate from him.

333	Also, a wife: Paul says the same regarding the woman. His main point is that a change in religion need not separate the mates. If the unbelieving mate is not willing to live with the Christian mate, then it is the unbeliever who separates or leaves.

1CO7:14 Because, the unbelieving husband has been sanctified in union with his [Christian] wife; 334 and also, the unbelieving wife has been sanctified in union with the [Christian] brother. 335 [If this were not so] your children would be unclean, 336 but now they are Saints. 337

334

The unbelieving husband has been sanctified in union with his [Christian] wife: Or, KJV: is sanctified by the wife; BEC: an unbelieving man married to such a woman serves a holy purpose; TCN: the husband… becomes associated with God’s People; GDS: consecrated through union with his wife. There are several views judging from the different paraphrases of this phrase. It is doubtful Paul means the husband is now a Saint because he is married to a Christian woman. Paul goes on to make two statements: their children are holy, and, the wife might save her husband. Surely the unbelieving husband is in a good position to be exposed to the Christian faith and in time his wife’s example will change him. Compare 1 Peter 3:1-7 on this matter.

335	The unbelieving wife has been sanctified in union with the [Christian] brother: See the notes above. In time the unbelieving wife, having become an eyewitness of the Christ-like love of her husband, may see the power and truth of Christ. [Ephesians 5:24ff]

336	[If this were not so] your children would be unclean: Or, KNX: born under a stain; NEB: would not belong to God; TCN: defiled. All children born are as David’s prayer in Psalm 51:5 describes. Compare also Job 14:4. [See notes on Romans 5:12 in Nazarene Commentary 2000©.]

337

But now they are Saints: Or, KJV: now they are holy. The Greek is HAGIA, or “holy ones.” We first remember Paul is giving his opinion. What will God do with the children of a Saint? If we read this as Paul has it, the under-age children of a godly parent will share in his/her heavenly reward. The children of a Christian parent are in a sanctified situation to learn of the Faith and later accept it as their own. Compare Ephesians 6:1 on this matter.

1CO7:15 However, if the unbelieving person separates, 338 let that person separate. The brother or the sister is not enslaved in that situation, 339 but rather The God has called you to peace. 340

338	The unbelieving person separates: It is the unbeliever who leaves, departs or separates. It is likely an unscriptural divorce might follow.

339

The brother or the sister are not enslaved in that situation: Or, under bondage, not bound, no compulsion. This is a unique occurrence of the use of “brother or sister” together. If the unbeliever separates because of religious beliefs, the abandoned mate must only remarry when the former spouse commits adultery from God’s perspective. [Mark 10:11, 12]

340	But rather The God has called you to peace: Either the peace of reconciliation, or the peace of an unbelieving element out of the household.

1CO7:16 For, wife, do you not realize you will save the husband? 341 Or, husband, do you not realize you will save your wife? 342

341	Wife, do you not realize you will save the husband: Or, NEB: you may be your husband’s salvation. Peter writes that the believing wife may do this “without a word” [she does not preach to him] through her “chaste conduct and deep respect.” Compare the Nazarene Commentary 2000© on 1 Peter 3:1-7.

342

Husband, do you not realize you will save your wife: It is unlikely this husband will save his wife by being preachy. Like the wife above, it will be his example that preaches the strongest sermon. If this Christian man now applies the words of Ephesians 5:25-31 and Proverbs 5:15-19 and Proverbs 31:12, 28. Judging from characteristics of a Christian elder, such a husband ought to be a true “catch.” [1 Timothy 3:1ff]

1 Corinthians 7:17-24 – Remain in Called State

1CO7:17 As the Master has given each person a portion, 343 let them continue walking in it just as The God has called. 344 And, thus, I direct in all the congregations. 345

343	As the Master has given each person a portion: Or, KJV: God hath distributed to every man; RSV: which that Lord has assigned him. Paul has in mind those who have responded to God’s invitation. Compare Matthew 22:1-14. [Romans 12:3; 1 Corinthians 12:18]

344	Let them continue walking in it just as The God has called: Or, WMS: only, everybody must continue to live in the station which the Master assigned to him, in that in which God called him. [1 Corinthians 7:7]

345	I direct in all the congregations: Or, ordained, teach, the rule. Unity in the Church was maintained by Paul’s consistent example and instructions in all the local congregations. See the notes on 1 Corinthians 4:17.

1CO7:18 Was any man called having been circumcised? 346 Do not get uncircumcised. 347 Was any man called in uncircumcision? 348 Do not get circumcised. 349

346	Was any man called having been circumcised: Or, invited. The word “circumcised” is virtually a synonym for Jew. [Ephesians 2:11; Philippians 3:3; Colossians 3:11] That is, “invited as a Jew.”

347	Do not get uncircumcised: The Christian who was formerly a Jew does not have to deny his Jewishness. He can remain a Jew and still be a Christian.

348	Was any man called in uncircumcision: Or, as a non-Jew. “Uncircumcision” is almost a synonym for “Greek.”

349	Do not get circumcised: Or, reject your non-Jewish ethnic heritage. One need not become a Jew in order to become a Christian. There is no commandment or charge upon males to be circumcised.

1CO7:19 The circumcision is nothing, and the uncircumcision is nothing, 350 but observance of God’s commandments [is something]. 351

350

The circumcision is nothing, and the uncircumcision is nothing: In other words: “being a Jew is nothing, and being a non-Jew is nothing.” Neither matters. [Galatians 3:29] Paul presents here the two major conflicts in the early Church. In the letter to the Romans he deals with this and how to bring the Jew and non-Jew into unity. On this matter note Acts 15:1ff and Galatians chapters 1 and 2.

351	But observance of God’s commandments [is something]: By this Paul does not mean the Law of Moses based on what he writes in Romans 2-11 and Galatians 1-4. See 1 John 3:23 on the two fundamentals in God’s commandments.

1CO7:20 Let each one remain in the calling to which he was called. 352

352

Let each one remain in the calling to which he was called: Or, invited. The real meaning may be reflected in such versions as MON: whatever be the condition in life in which he was called, in that let him continue. [See also MOF] There is a certain satisfaction with one’s place in life rather than struggle to be something else – something he is not.

1CO7:21 Were you called as a slave? 353 Do not let it be a cause of concern. However, if you are able to become free, use the opportunity.

353	Were you called as a slave: Paul does not recommend some social struggle against slavery. Rather remain a slave without great anxiety or concern. However, if the opportunity arises to gain freedom, accept it. [Galatians 3:28; see Paul’s letter to Philemon]

1CO7:22 For the person having been called in the Master when a slave is the Master’s freeman. 354 Likewise, the free person having been called is Christ’s slave. 355

354

For the person having been called in the Master when a slave is the Master’s freeman: Slavery and freedom are only abstractions in the big scheme of things. Many who think themselves free are in the depths of the worst kind of economic slavery. Ancient slavery has been replaced by economic slavery in which people spend their lives serving Riches. [Matthew 6:24] Many an ancient slave lived a better life than their modern Visa-Master Charge counterparts. Physically a person may be enslaved, but is free in spirit as a servant of the Nazarene.

355	The free person having been called is Christ’s slave: The Christian who is not a slave may think himself superior because he is not a servant to another, but he forgets the most demanding form of slavery of all. [1 Peter 2:16]

1CO7:23 All of you were bought with a Price. 356 Do not become human slaves. 357

356	All of you were bought with a Price: See notes on 1 Corinthians 6:20.

357	Do not become human slaves: Or, servants of men, slaves to men. [Galatians 5:1]

1CO7:24 Brothers, in whatever situation you were called, remain in it close to God. 358

358

In whatever situation you were called, remain in it close to God: Or, condition, state. Rather than being dissatisfied with one’s “lot in life” it is better to enjoy a close relationship with God. Life passes quickly and then suddenly we stand before the judgment-seat of Christ. [2 Corinthians 5:10] How did we use our body in his service?

1 Corinthians 7:25-28 – Opinion on Celibacy and Marriage

1CO7:25 Now regarding virgins I have no injunction from the Master, 359 but I give my own opinion as one shown mercy 360 by [a] Master to be faithful. 361

359

Now regarding virgins I have no injunction from the Master: Or, commandment, no direct commands. What follows is not a commandment from the Master Jesus delivered to Paul by the Pneuma-Helper. It is the opinion of a spirit-filled apostle chosen by the glorified Christ himself. So, these are not Church canon, but merely wise suggestions from a mature and experienced Christian man.

360	I give my own opinion as one shown mercy: Or, judgment, a considered opinion. Contrast 1 Corinthians 7:12 with 1 Corinthians 14:37.

361	By [a] Master to be faithful: Or, KJV: of the Master to be faithful; TCN: it is that of a man whom the Master in his mercy has made worthy to be trusted; MON: deserving of your confident; PME: after all the experience of God’s mercy. Compare 1 Timothy 1:12, 16.

1CO7:26 Therefore, given the circumstances because of the necessity of this existing distress, 362 I [give an] opinion 363 – it is alright for a person to remain as they are. 364

362

Given the circumstances because of the necessity of this existing distress: Or, KJV: this is good for the present distress; TCN: in view of the time of suffering that has come upon; MON: in view of the time of suffering now imminent; ALF: by reason of the present necessity. Paul may mean the pressing needs of those unmarried persons in Corinth. Or, judging from what he says below, he may allude to the building Roman movement against Judaism and Christianity. Such would break out in July 1, 66 AD in fulfillment of the Nazarene’s prophecies. [Matthew 24:15ff; Luke 21:21-24]

363	I [give an] opinion: Or, I think.

364	It is alright for a person to remain as they are: Or, MOF: it would be an excellent plan to remain as you are. [1 Corinthians 7:17]

1CO7:27 Have you been bound to a wife? 365 Do not seek a release. 366 Have you been released from a wife? 367 Do not seek another woman. 368

365	Have you been bound to a wife: Or, married; tied to a wife. [Matthew 19:6]

366

Do not seek a release: Or, to be loosed, divorced. In view of the Master’s command regarding the reasons for divorce [Mark 10:11, 12] only on the grounds of adultery, it would seem Paul means here seeking a separation without the ability to remarry. [Malachi 2:16] In other words, he may allude to a husband’s creating the circumstances by which the unbelieving mate is no longer willing to dwell with him.

367	Have you been released from a wife: The unbelieving wife mentioned above who was not willing to dwell with her new Christian husband.

368	Do not seek another woman: Or, a wife. The Christian man could not remarry unless his wife committed adultery. In other words – become celibate.

1CO7:28 But, if you should ever marry, you do not sin. 369 And if the virgin should ever marry, she does not sin. 370 However, such persons will have fleshly tribulation. 371 I am only trying to spare you. 372

369	If you should ever marry, you do not sin: Remarriage would only be a sin if the original mate had not committed adultery. [Mark 10:11, 12; Hebrews 13:4]

370

If the virgin should ever marry, she does not sin: The Greek for “virgin” is PARTHENON from which the great temple in Athens is named, primarily because virgin girls were bought by the highest bidder to loose their virginity to the gods as an act of worship. The Christian virgin woman would not perform such idolatrous practices and was free to marry without sinning.

371

However, such persons will have fleshly tribulation: Or, trouble in the flesh.99.9% of all married couples have experienced this marital tribulation in the flesh: tribulation from a tyrannical husband, tribulation from a nagging wife, tribulation by abusive husband, tribulation from an abusive wife, tribulations over money, tribulations from children, tribulations of illness, tribulations of in-laws, tribulations in life’s struggles and anxieties, etc., etc., etc. Ask any married couple. There are, of course, rare exceptions to Paul’s rule. Find one if you can. Such tribulations were foretold in Genesis 3:16.

372

I am only trying to spare you: The single, celibate Christian does well to examine a score of married couples in all circumstances, public and private, to discern Paul’s wisdom. Many a “happily married” person may often wonder if the benefits of marriage were not out-weighed by the freedom of celibate singleness. Despite this sage counsel the force of human nature and the reproductive drive leaves no fear the human race will die out because the majority choose celibacy. We wonder at those Corinthian couples who read this advice and later married did not later ponder the apostle’s “opinion.”

1 Corinthians 7:29-35 – Marital Anxiety and Reduced Time

1CO7:29 Now this I say, brothers, the seasonal opportunity is reduced for what remains. 373 So, those who have wives be as those not having [them]; 374

373

The seasonal opportunity is reduced for what remains: Or, KJV: the time left is short; RHM: the opportunity is contracted; GDS: the appointed time has grown very near; NEB: the time we live in will not last long; PME: all our future are so foreshortened. One can see by the variety of approaches to this phrase that it is a difficult one. The Greek is literally, HO KAIROS SYN-ESTAL-MENOS ESTIN. Or, the appointed time [season] having been placed together is. [KIT] DIA: the remainder of the season having been shortened. Compare Romans 13:11 and 1 Peter 4:7. The Roman War with the Jews was only a few years away and burst forth in its fury on July 1, 66 AD. By the year 73 AB over a million Jews were slaughtered and untold numbers of Christians martyred. Jesus had cautioned pregnant and nursing women during this “day of inspection.” [Luke 19:42-44; 21:23] A great holocaust was to settle upon earth in what both the Nazarene and Paul called “the consummation of the Age.” [Matthew 24:3; Hebrews 9:26] This was all in fulfillment of Daniel 9:26, 27. In the famine Jewish women boiled their children and cannibalized them, while the last hold out of Jews on Masada either leaped to their deaths or were ritually murdered. This was the “conclusion of the Age” and Paul knows well it is a most difficult time to be married or have children.

374

Those who have wives be as those not having [them]: Or, MOF: live as they had none; NOR: had better live as though they had none; TAY: for this reason those who have wives should stay s free as possible for the Master. Again, this is a difficult phrase. It is Paul’s opinion. TAY may be close to the mark on one view: use the remaining time in the Master’s service. The next century or more would see the Roman persecution of the Christian Church in the bloodiest manner of all human history. No one has to tell a mother how much anxiety she has for her children, or a man for his wife in these dangerous moments. Christians – men, women, and children – were fed to the lions and ripped to shreds by other beasts. They had wax poured over them and their flaming bodies used to light the Roman night as martyred candles. They were sent into foreign lands as slaves for hard labor. Paul knows it simply was not the time to devote to marriage and parenting. History proved him – O, so sadly – true. [Luke 14:26]

1CO7:30 also, those weeping as those not weeping; 375 and those rejoicing as not rejoicing; 376 and those who purchase as those not possessing; 377

375

Those weeping as those not weeping: Or, KNX: those who weep must forget their tears; TAY: sadness… should not keep anyone from doing God’s work; BAS: those who are in sorrow, to give no signs of it. Do not let unhappiness or depression weigh you down so that you neglect the Master’s service. See verses 33, 34.

376	Those rejoicing as not rejoicing: Or, PME: no time for enjoying our joys. Do not let unbridled happiness and joy divert your attention. See verses 33, 34.

377

Those who purchase as those not possessing: Or, KJV: they that buy, as though they possessed not; KNX: those who buy must renounce possessions; PME: those who buy have no tie to enjoy their possessions; BEC: if you buy anything act as if you didn’t. Within the next few years Jews and Christians would loose virtually all of their property and possessions. Nero would blame the burning of Rome upon the Christians. Those dwelling in Judea would have to flee to the mountains with only what they could carry. For this and other reasons the early Church was very communal. Those not in prison shared what they had. Compare Hebrews 10:34.

1CO7:31 and those using for themselves the world of humanity 378 as those not using it fully. 379 For the scheme of humanity’s social order is passing away. 380

378

Those using for themselves the world of humanity: Or, KJV: and they that use this world; GDS: those who mix in the world; NOR: busy with worldly affairs; PME: every contact with; BAR: involved in the world’s business must live as if they were not immersed in it. Compare James 4:13, 14 and 1 John 2:16.

379

As those not using it fully: Or, KJV: as not abusing it; ASV: not using it to the full; GDS: not absorbed in it; BEC: don’t try to get out of it all you can; NOR: must not be overly absorbed in them; PME: must be light as possible. Compare the parable at Luke 12:12-21. The wisest course of action – in view of the time – was to lead the simple Nazarene life [Matthew 6:20-34] and have as little commercial contact with the world as possible. Serious times of life and death lay ahead and possessions would prove to be worthless, turned to powder under the Roman sword.

380

For the scheme of humanity’s social order is passing away: Or, KJV: the fashion of the world passeth away; TCN: for this world as we see it is passing away; PME: for the presence scheme of things is rapidly passing away; BAR: for this world in its present changing form will not last much longer. History would confirm the degree of these words for all Judaism and Christianity would be changed forever, including the final collapse of the Roman Empire. [1 John 2:16] Some think Paul believed the parousia was imminent, but see his words written earlier at 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3.

1CO7:32 But, I wish all of you to be free from anxiety. 381 The unmarried person is anxious for the things of the Master, 382 how the Master should be pleased. 383

381

I wish all of you to be free from anxiety: Or, without carefulness, free from cares. What Paul says above is not to overly concern them. In view of the season and the changing nature of the world – heading for the Roman oblivion – the Nazarene commandments take on greater meaning. [Matthew 6:33, 34] Compare Jesus at Luke 10:41. [Philippians 4:6] Some – many feel a majority – after years of marriage find themselves cursed with daily anxiety and exaggerated concern. Sometimes the person one marries turns out not to be the person one is married to.

382	The unmarried person is anxious for the things of the Master: Or, PME: the unmarried man is free to concern himself with the Master’s affairs. This and the next few phrases give background to what Paul has said above.

383	How the Master should be pleased: Or, gain the Master’s approval.

1CO7:33 On the other hand the married man is anxious for the things 384 of humanity’s social order, how he should please his wife, 385 and so he is divided. 386

384

The married man is anxious for the things: Or, earthly things. Paul has it right with “things.” It is one thing for a single man to be concerned about his food, clothing, and lodging. It is wholly another when he has wife and children. The anxiety is increased a hundred-fold. During times of extreme necessity such as that falling upon the Church, this anxiety would be over-whelming. [Luke 14:20]

385	How he should please his wife: Or, NEB: his aim is to please his wife. Paul states a truth for some men – their desire to please their wives by possessions and worldly means. He does not criticize this, but merely states a well-known fact of life.

386

So he is divided: Or, WMS: his devotion is divided; MOF: torn in two directions. The tension between attempting to serve “God and Riches” and that of godly care of a family is sometimes a difficult one. Often in Christian marriage and households there is a united effort to try what Jesus describes in Matthew 6:24.

1CO7:34 Also the unmarried woman and the virgin are anxious for the things of the Master, 387 so that she may be holy regarding the body and the spirit. 388 But, the married woman 389 is anxious for the things of humanity’s social order and how she should please her husband. 390

387

Unmarried woman and the virgin are anxious for the things of the Master: Very likely Christianity started out this way, but this is not the case at the beginning of the 3rd Millennium. Most unmarried “Christian” women are trying to serve Christ and Riches in the materialistic West as well as reaching out to the world. [Matthew 6:24; 1 John 2:16] There are modern women who are outstanding examples of remaining celibate to serve the Master.

388

She may be holy regarding the body and the spirit: Or, NEB: dedicated to him in body as spirit; TCN: striving to be pure both in body and in spirit. [2 Corinthians 7:1] There is no escaping Paul’s use of “holy” here. It is the single, celibate woman who may adopt a life-style that wholly serves the Master’s interests and thus remain holy in body and spirit. [Compare 2 Corinthians 7:1]

389	The married woman: See notes above on the husband.

390

How she should please her husband: Like the husband, the married woman should strive to please her husband. Though unable to serve the Master completely without distraction, a couple who strive to please one another will likely make a happy union. Women by nature are “nesters” and much of their emotion is directed toward the home and family. The Christian woman must guard against becoming materialistic and shoving Christ into a very small part of her life.

1CO7:35 Now I say this to all of you for your own benefit and not to control you, 391 but rather that you might do the suitable thing 392 and be fully devoted to the Master 393 without any distractions. 394

391	For your own benefit and not to control you: Or, own profit; a snare, halter. Paul is not the ‘lord of their faith’. [2 Corinthians 1:24] Modern Christian elders can learn much from this in not attempting to “control” fellow believers, a fault of many sects.

392	You might do the suitable thing: Or, suitable, seemly.

393	And be fully devoted to the Master: Or, undivided devotion.

394	Without any distractions: undivided.

1 Corinthians 7:36-38 – Marriage versus Celibacy

1CO7:36 However, if anyone thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin [woman] 395 – if she is over the bloom of life 396 – and it is surely to occur 397 – let him do what he wishes. 398 He is not sinning. Let them marry. 399

395

If anyone thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin [woman]: This section has some difficulties and by reading Weymouth and Barclay one can see one view on this reading. This commentary takes the position that Paul is speaking of two persons in a position to marry one another, and not a father and his daughter. [Virgin daughter, etc – ASV, TCN, CON] However, note: RSV: if any one thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed; GDS: not acting properly toward the girl to whom he is engaged; MOF: to the maid who is his spiritual bride; NEB: if any man has a partner in celibacy and he feels he is not behaving properly toward her. This would seem to refer to that “fire” mentioned in 1 Corinthians 7:9.

396	If she is over the bloom of life: Or, TAY: getting older; TCN: past her youth; PME: beginning to lose her first youth. The case of the virgin is not a young woman in her early teens.

397

And it is surely to occur: Or, MON: the matter is urgent; PME: the emotional strain is considerable; GDS: if his passions are too strong; RSV: if his passions are strong, and it has to be. Likely Paul’s “it” here is either that “fire” of 1 Corinthians 7:9 in the form of pre-marital sexual intercourse with a high possible pregnancy. Such was not condemned under the Law of Moses, though the man shared a heavy burden in that he had to marry the woman, pay a price to her father, and relinquish the right of divorce. In some modern sects “fornication” is described as premarital sex, though the Bible is not so explicit. Of course, there is a different between two people who are “in love” and have premarital sex and a male or female who have many sexual partners without intent of marriage.

398	Let him do what he wishes: Though in some cases, possibly by mutual consent, the two could separate to follow celibate lives, Paul is likely indicating the man should marry.

399	Let them marry: There is no sin in marriage. It is interesting to note that Paul does not here add “only in the Master” as he did in the case of widows in 1 Corinthians 7:39.

1CO7:37 But, he who has taken a steadfast stand in his heart, 400 having no necessity, 401 but possessed of authority over his own will 402 – and this he has decided in his own heart, 403 to preserve his own virginity 404 – he will do well.

400	He who has taken a steadfast stand in his heart: Or, steadfast purpose, strong in mind. Paul speaks to the male Christian who may have the gift of celibacy.

401	Having no necessity: Or, no compulsion, able to bear the strain. [Matthew 19:12; 1 Corinthians 7:7]

402	Possessed of authority over his own will: Or, PME: has his own desires well under control.

403	This he has decided in his own heart: Or, decreed, determined.

404

To preserve his own virginity: Or, doing right. There are a variety of approaches: a] it is the virgin daughter of a father [MON; TCN]; b] to maintain a celibate union with a woman who remains virgin [NOR, RSV, NEB, MOF]; and, c] the Christian male has determined not to marry but remain celibate in his own virginity. Though the Hebrew word for “virgin” BETHU-LAH’ is limited to females, the Greek PARTHENOS may be applied to a man or woman who have not have sexual intercourse. [Matthew 25:1-12; Luke 1:27; Acts 21:9; 1 Corinthians 7:25, 36-38]

1CO7:38 And also, the man giving his virginity in marriage does well; 405 but the man not giving [his virginity] in marriage will do better. 406

405	The man giving his virginity in marriage does well: Again this phrase is rendered in harmony with the above three views. Or, RSV: he who marries his betrothed does well; NEB: he who marries his partner does well. Marriage is honorable. [Hebrews 13:4]

406	But the man not giving [his virginity] in marriage will do better: [See notes above.] Or, RSV: he who refrains from marriage will do better. There are not just a few couples that after years of marriage wished they had remained single.

1 Corinthians 7:39-40 – Freedom of Widows

1CO7:39 A wife is bound to her husband for as long as he is living. 407 But, if her husband should sleep [in death], she is free to marry whomever she wishes 408 – but only someone in union with the Master. 409

407	A wife is bound to her husband for as long as he is living: This is not Paul’s opinion but God’s law. [Romans 7:2]

408	If her husband should sleep [in death], she is free to marry whomever she wishes: Compare Romans 7:2 3.

409

Only someone in union with the Master: It is worthy of note Paul says this of the widow only. Under the Law of Moses certain marriages with foreigners were either prohibited or discouraged. [Exodus 34:14-16; Leviticus 18:6-17; Deuteronomy 7:1-4] There is no explicit or direct command for a Christian man or woman not to marry a non-Christian though traditionally such a view has been held by some.

1CO7:40 However, she will be happier if she remains as she is 410 – according to my own opinion. For I think I also have God’s Pneuma. 411

410	She will be happier if she remains as she is: Paul speaks of widows remaining unmarried and celibate. This is his own opinion and he expresses it again at 1 Timothy 5:11, 12 when speaking of widows under 60. Many women and men would agree with Paul.

411	I think I also have God’s Pneuma: This puts some force behind Paul’s “opinion” for it surely ought to be respected though what he says is not the Master’s commandment.

Review Questions on Chapter Seven