First Corinthians 7:15-40

So, does this passage justify divorce? If so, for what reasons?

Also, does this passage justify slavery? (v.20-22) What is the key truth Paul is presenting here?

I find Paul's comments on marriage humorous. He certainly has no desire to be married, and wants all other believers to avoid the responsibilities of marriage, if one can do so without sin. Two observations. 1) Again, Paul is concerned about the end of time, so he views marriages and families as a luxury (i.e., for sexual purity) and not a necessity for the preparation of the church for the coming of Christ's kingdom. 2) In discussing marital issues, Paul gives his own advice, and does not present his message as a prophetic word from God (v.25). So, he gives his best opinion, but does not judge anyone concerning marriage or singleness.

So, note Paul's passion for the Gospel, for sexual purity, and for a right relationship with God. I think these are the driving forces behind his comments here. It also forces the questions: what would I give up to serve God? What am I already committed to in this life that I can use for God's glory? Am I serving God to the best of my ability in the life that he has given me? Remember, Paul is not calling for these people to make drastic changes in their walk of life. He is calling on them to live the Gospel right where they currently are. In Paul's mind, this is where God has placed them, and they need to shine!

First Corinthians 7:1-14

Paul continues to address issues of sexual immorality in the Corinthian church. Apparently he has received some questions from Corinth (7:1) and now is answering them.

The first issue surrounds marriage, and whether a Christian man should marry. Personally, I am glad I am married and really enjoy my wife and family. I think Paul's perspective is different. First of all, he is completely married to the Gospel. So, he has no use for sexual activity at all. A very noble gesture. Yet, I readily admit that I fall among the "weak" who need to be married in order to fulfill the proper mode of sexual purity. Paul, though, feels no such passion. He is thinking only about the cross. Now, if I could channel some of my random energies and bodily passions into spiritual pursuits, what could God do through me then? Paul covered two continents on foot and by boat, started a multitude on churches, and preached the Gospel in Asia Minor, Rome, and possibly Spain. WOW!

Secondly, he is speaking to a group of people who have a very different perspective on physical pleasure, and he is attempting to re-channel their thinking away from selfish pleasure to selfless pleasure. Thus, sex is about pleasing your partner, not pleasing yourself. It is also about fulfilling you God given duties, not pleasing yourself. However, being ever so practical, if you are going to burn with lust, God has provided a way to handle it--take advantage of it!

Part of marital problems occur when couple intimacy breaks down and the sexual bond is not available when needed. Communication and intimacy are essential to a good sex life. They also require a more selfless approach to the relationship. Are you ready to sacrifice your personal pride and desires for a better sex life? That's the Christian way: self-sacrifice leads to greater reward and personal fulfillment.

Tell me: what do you think of Paul's divorce comments? And what about a believing spouse staying with an unbeliever to sanctify the marriage and the children? What does he mean?