1 Corinthians 7:6 – “I say this as a concession, not as a command.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul clarifies that what he just said in the previous verses—about marriage, intimacy, and temporarily abstaining for prayer—is not a strict command from God but a concession. In other words, he is offering wise guidance, not an absolute rule that every Christian must follow.

The word “concession” means that Paul is allowing something as a wise and beneficial option, but it is not required. In the previous verse (1 Corinthians 7:5), Paul explained that married couples might, by mutual agreement, set aside intimacy for a short time to focus on prayer. Now, in verse 6, he clarifies that this is not a requirement for every couple but rather a personal decision that each marriage must make with wisdom.

Paul does not mean that everything he says in this chapter is just his opinion. Throughout the chapter, he gives both direct commands from God and personal guidance based on his understanding of God’s will. Here, he makes a distinction so that people do not misunderstand and think that abstaining from intimacy for prayer is a rule all couples must follow.

Historical Context

Paul was writing to the church in Corinth, a city known for its immorality. Many Christians in the church were struggling to understand how to live holy lives, and some had begun to believe that total abstinence—even in marriage—was the most spiritual way to live. Paul corrects this idea by teaching that marriage is a good and honorable institution where physical intimacy plays a God-given role.

At the same time, Paul acknowledges that there might be occasions when a couple chooses to set aside intimacy temporarily to seek God more fully in prayer. But he does not want believers to think that this is a universal command. His goal is to give them wisdom and balance, not to put an unnecessary burden on them.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches several important theological truths:

1. Wisdom and Freedom in Christian Living – Not every decision in the Christian life is about strict commands; sometimes, God allows us to exercise wisdom based on our personal circumstances.
2. Marriage is Not a Burden – Paul does not want believers to view marriage or intimacy as something they must avoid to be more spiritual. Instead, he sees marriage as a good and God-honoring relationship.
3. Spiritual Practices Should Not Become Legalistic – Fasting, prayer, and times of devotion are good, but they should not be turned into rigid laws that take away from the joy and purpose of marriage.
4. Paul’s Teaching Carries Authority but Recognizes Individual Needs – Paul, as an apostle, gives guidance that is valuable for all believers, but he also recognizes that not every situation requires the same approach.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s language in this verse is careful and pastoral. He uses the word “concession” to distinguish this guidance from a command. This shows his sensitivity to different personal situations.

Throughout 1 Corinthians 7, Paul moves between absolute commands (such as remaining faithful in marriage) and practical wisdom (such as choosing singleness or marriage based on personal calling). This distinction is important because it helps readers understand that not every instruction in Scripture is a one-size-fits-all rule—some things require personal discernment and prayer.

Biblical Cross-References

• Matthew 19:11-12 – Jesus acknowledges that not everyone is called to the same lifestyle (such as celibacy or marriage).
• Romans 14:5-6 – Paul teaches that some decisions in the Christian life are matters of personal conviction rather than strict commandments.
• 1 Corinthians 7:7 – Paul expresses his personal preference for singleness but acknowledges that not everyone has the same calling.
• 1 Timothy 4:4-5 – Everything God created, including marriage and physical intimacy, is good when received with thanksgiving.
• Colossians 2:20-23 – Paul warns against unnecessary restrictions that people add to their faith, which may appear wise but lack true spiritual value.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

This verse reminds Christians that while God gives clear commands on important moral issues, there are also areas where believers have freedom to make wise decisions based on their circumstances.

For married couples, this verse encourages them to seek balance in their relationship. Times of focused prayer and devotion are valuable, but they should not come at the expense of the health of their marriage.

For single Christians, this verse is a reminder that spiritual disciplines should never be turned into legalistic burdens. God wants people to grow in faith, but He also gives freedom in how they pursue Him.

Ultimately, this verse teaches that wisdom and discernment are key in the Christian life. Not every issue has a rigid rule; sometimes, God gives believers the ability to make choices that best align with their calling and circumstances.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God’s love is not controlling or burdensome. He does not create unnecessary rules to make life difficult for His children. Instead, He gives guidance and wisdom so that believers can make choices that honor Him while also experiencing joy and fulfillment.

By allowing flexibility in certain areas of life, God shows His understanding of human needs and circumstances. He is not a rigid taskmaster but a loving Father who desires what is best for His people.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus often challenged the religious leaders of His time who turned spiritual practices into rigid laws (Matthew 23:4). He taught that following God is about love and faithfulness rather than empty rituals.

Paul’s teaching in this verse aligns with Jesus’ emphasis on balance and wisdom. Jesus never imposed unnecessary burdens on people, and Paul follows that same principle.

Additionally, Jesus demonstrated wisdom in His approach to different people. Some were called to marriage, others to singleness. Some needed rest, while others needed to be challenged in their faith. His example shows that God’s commands are not about restriction but about leading people toward what is best for them.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. What does this verse teach about the difference between commands and wise guidance in the Christian life?
2. How can married couples apply the principle of mutual agreement in their relationship?
3. Why is it important to distinguish between essential biblical commands and areas where Christians have freedom?
4. How can this verse help prevent legalism in Christian faith and practice?
5. What are some ways believers can seek wisdom in making personal decisions while still honoring God?