I say this for your own benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote good order and to secure your undivided devotion to the Lord. 1 Corinthians 7:35
I continue my study of 1 Corinthians. I am assisted in my study by the Christ-Centered Exposition Series commentary for this book. Today my focus is a review - unaided by the commentary - of 1 Corinthians 7:25-40.
- v25: Paul states that based on his extensive knowledge of Old Testament moral law - unlike for marriage - he is not aware of anything in the law that does not specifically provide any command or instruction for virgins/unmarried (per ESV footnote, Greek text translates to virgins vs translation to English word betrothed). However, he does proceed to offer his guidance and shares that he is trustworthy.
- v26-27: building on text from yesterday v17-24 about anxiety, he writes how he does not want virgins/unmarried to be worried about finding a spouse and getting married - God is sovereign over the details of our lives and He has a plan for each of us - right where we are in our present circumstances.
- v28: Paul then cautions those virgins/unmarried that do marry to avoid being concerned about changing their circumstances - this is not sinful. Yet at the same time, don't assume that marriage will be a trouble/anxiety free endeavor - this a mythical/idyllic portrait; on the contrary temptations and challenges abound for all including married couples.
- v29-31: Paul pivots to how all believers, regardless of the their circumstances (married, widowed, virgins, bondservants, circumcised, etc.) should not be anxious of their circumstances but focus on the reality that our earthly circumstances are temporary and that "the present form of this world is passing away". Focus on things eternal and preparing for the Lord's return.
- v32-35: Paul reiterates that we should be free from anxiety - and too intense a focus on marriage by virgins and widowers will serve as a distraction from devotion to the Lord.
- v36: Further unpacking his guidance for virgins/unmarried and widowers, Paul shares how sexual temptations might be overwhelming and in this case, marriage might help.
- v37-38: In contrast to those who do face strong temptations, Paul describes those whose temptations are under control based on perhaps a mature faith and trust in God. These people are in a better position to focus their attention on the Lord vs pleasing a spouse which again may be distraction for devotion to the Lord.
- v39-40: Paul concludes by explicitly including widowers in his guidance - don't be anxious about remarriage as God will use your circumstances. But at the same time, it is not a sin if you do remarry.
My Prayer: Lord Jesus, You are an awesome God who loves and who is full of grace and compassion for me. Thank You Jesus! I am not deserving of all the blessings You pour out for me - every day. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me and help me turn from and overcome my sin and turn towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
