1 Corinthians 7:1 – “Now for the matters you wrote about: ‘It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.’”
Extended Explanation
This verse begins a section where Paul addresses questions the Corinthian church had written to him about. The phrase “Now for the matters you wrote about” suggests that Paul is directly responding to concerns raised by the believers in Corinth.
The second part of the verse, “‘It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman,’” is a statement that some in the church were likely advocating. Paul acknowledges this viewpoint but does not mean that celibacy is required for everyone. In the following verses, he clarifies that while singleness can be good, marriage is also honorable and provides a rightful place for intimacy (1 Corinthians 7:2-9).
Paul is not condemning marriage or sexual relations within marriage. Instead, he recognizes singleness as a legitimate and even beneficial choice for those who are able to live that way without falling into temptation.
Historical Context
Corinth was a city known for its immorality, including rampant sexual sin. The believers there struggled with understanding how to live holy lives in such a culture. Some may have believed that complete abstinence, even within marriage, was necessary for holiness. Others may have swung in the opposite direction, thinking that sexual indulgence was harmless.
Paul addresses both extremes in this chapter. He acknowledges that singleness can be beneficial for serving God without distraction (1 Corinthians 7:32-35), but he also affirms the God-ordained purpose of marriage as a place for sexual intimacy (Genesis 2:24).
Theological Implications
This verse speaks to the balance between singleness and marriage in the Christian life. It highlights that both are good gifts from God and that neither should be viewed as superior. The broader teaching of Scripture shows that marriage is a picture of Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:31-32), while singleness allows for undivided devotion to God (1 Corinthians 7:32-34).
It also emphasizes the importance of self-control and honoring God with our bodies (1 Corinthians 6:18-20). Whether married or single, Christians are called to live in purity and obedience to God’s design for relationships.
Literary Analysis
Paul’s writing style in 1 Corinthians is direct and corrective. He often quotes statements from the Corinthian church, responding to their ideas with biblical wisdom. The phrase “‘It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman’” may have been a slogan used by some in the church who believed celibacy was the ideal Christian lifestyle.
Paul frequently uses contrast and clarification throughout this chapter, showing how both singleness and marriage can honor God. The rhetorical structure of this verse sets up the discussion that follows, where Paul provides further instruction on marriage, singleness, and sexual purity.
Biblical Cross-References
- Genesis 2:24 – God’s design for marriage as a one-flesh union.
- Matthew 19:10-12 – Jesus acknowledges singleness as a gift for some.
- 1 Corinthians 6:18-20 – The call to flee sexual immorality.
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 – The advantages of singleness for serving God.
- Ephesians 5:31-32 – Marriage as a picture of Christ and the church.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
This verse reminds Christians that both marriage and singleness can be lived out in a way that honors God. In a culture that often distorts sexuality and relationships, this passage encourages believers to seek God’s wisdom in how they approach their relationships.
For those called to singleness, this verse affirms that they are not lacking but can fully devote themselves to God. For those called to marriage, it reinforces that intimacy within marriage is good and should not be rejected.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is evident in how He provides guidance for both married and single believers. He does not impose one lifestyle on all but instead gives each person unique callings and gifts. This passage shows that God cares about our relationships and wants us to live in a way that brings fulfillment and honors Him.
Whether single or married, Christians can find security in God’s love, knowing that their worth is not determined by their relationship status but by their identity in Christ.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Himself lived a single, celibate life, dedicating Himself fully to the mission of saving sinners (Luke 19:10). He also upheld the sanctity of marriage, teaching that it reflects God’s original design (Matthew 19:4-6).
Ultimately, Jesus is the perfect example of self-sacrificial love, whether in singleness or in marriage. His relationship with the church is described as a marriage, with Christ as the bridegroom and the church as His bride (Revelation 19:7-9). This means that all Christians—whether married or single—find their deepest fulfillment in their relationship with Christ.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What does this verse teach about singleness and marriage in the Christian life?
- How does this verse challenge cultural views on relationships?
- In what ways can single believers serve God wholeheartedly?
- How can married couples honor God in their relationship?
- What does this verse teach us about finding fulfillment in Christ rather than in human relationships?