1 Corinthians 7:33 – “But a married man is concerned about the affairs of this world—how he can please his wife.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul explains one of the realities of marriage: a married person has responsibilities that naturally take up time and attention. Unlike a single person, who can fully focus on serving God, a married person also has to think about how to care for and provide for their spouse.

• “A married man is concerned about the affairs of this world” – This does not mean that being married is sinful or worldly. Instead, it means that marriage comes with practical responsibilities—work, finances, and family life—that require attention.
• “How he can please his wife” – A good husband is not just thinking about himself. He must think about loving, serving, and meeting the needs of his wife.

Paul is not saying that marriage is wrong—he has already said in 1 Corinthians 7:28 that marriage is good. However, he is pointing out the reality that marriage requires focus, time, and effort. This means that a married believer will have to balance serving God and fulfilling family responsibilities.

Historical Context

1. The Role of Marriage in the Ancient World – In Jewish and Roman culture, marriage was a major life expectation. A man was expected to provide for his family, which meant working hard, securing finances, and ensuring his household was stable.
2. The Church’s Growing Mission – The early church was spreading quickly, and many Christians were involved in missionary work, church leadership, and helping the poor. A married person had to balance their ministry with their family commitments.
3. Paul’s Call to Undivided Devotion – In this chapter, Paul is discussing the benefits of singleness for those who want to serve God fully. He is not criticizing marriage, but he is reminding believers that marriage adds responsibilities that can sometimes take away from ministry.

Paul’s teaching was not against marriage, but it challenged the idea that marriage should always be a person’s highest priority.

Theological Implications

1. Marriage is Good, but It Brings Earthly Responsibilities – Marriage is a God-given blessing, but it also requires time, effort, and sacrifice.
2. Serving God While Married Requires Balance – A married believer must learn how to prioritize God while still being faithful to their spouse and family.
3. God Designed Marriage for Love and Partnership – A husband is supposed to care for and serve his wife, not just pursue his own goals.

This verse reminds us that marriage is a calling that comes with responsibilities, not just personal fulfillment.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s wording is simple and direct, showing the reality of marriage:

• “A married man is concerned” – This shows that marriage naturally creates responsibilities that cannot be ignored.
• “About the affairs of this world” – This does not mean worldly in a sinful way, but rather practical needs like food, shelter, and family life.
• “How he can please his wife” – A husband has a duty to care for and meet the needs of his wife.

This verse is part of a contrast Paul is making between singleness and marriage—each has its own challenges and blessings.

Biblical Cross-References

• Ephesians 5:25 – “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her.” (A husband’s responsibility is to love sacrificially.)
• Colossians 3:19 – “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” (Marriage requires patience and kindness.)
• Proverbs 18:22 – “He who finds a wife finds what is good and receives favor from the Lord.” (Marriage is a blessing.)
• Luke 14:26 – “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children… such a person cannot be my disciple.” (Jesus emphasizes that devotion to God should be the highest priority.)

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Marriage is Not Just About Romance—It’s About Responsibility – Many people focus on the emotional and romantic side of marriage but forget that it also requires commitment, sacrifice, and service.
2. Being Married Means Learning to Balance Priorities – A married Christian must learn how to put God first while still being faithful to their spouse.
3. Single Christians Have a Unique Opportunity – Paul’s teaching reminds singles that they can serve God in ways that married people cannot, because they do not have to divide their attention.

This verse encourages both married and single believers to be wise about their responsibilities and priorities.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

1. God Created Marriage as a Blessing – He designed it so that husbands and wives could support each other.
2. God Cares About Our Relationships – He wants marriages to be healthy, loving, and centered on Him.
3. God Gives Us Different Callings – Some people are called to marriage, and others to singleness. Both are good and can glorify God.

God’s love is seen in the way He gives us the wisdom to navigate relationships while keeping Him at the center.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus Showed the Ultimate Example of Love and Sacrifice – Marriage is a picture of Christ’s love for the church (Ephesians 5:25). A husband should love his wife the way Jesus loves His people.
2. Jesus Called People to Follow Him Above All Else – In Luke 9:57-62, Jesus teaches that following Him must be the highest priority.
3. Jesus Lived as a Single Man for the Sake of God’s Mission – While marriage is a blessing, Jesus’ life shows that singleness can also be a powerful way to serve God without distraction.

Jesus’ teachings confirm Paul’s message: marriage is good, but devotion to God should always come first.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge common views about marriage?
2. If you are married, how do you balance serving God and fulfilling your responsibilities to your spouse?
3. If you are single, how can you use this time to focus more on God’s work?
4. How does this verse help you understand the different challenges that come with marriage and singleness?
5. What steps can you take to keep God as the top priority in your life, whether married or single?