1 Corinthians 7: Expository Preaching and Study Guide

Overview

1 Corinthians 7 addresses critical matters concerning marriage, singleness, divorce, and sexuality within the framework of Christian discipleship. The Apostle Paul provides Spirit-inspired guidance to the Corinthian believers who were grappling with questions about marital status and personal holiness amidst a morally permissive culture.

Paul does not simply give personal advice; his instruction is based on divine revelation and a clear understanding of God’s design for human relationships. He emphasizes that each person’s calling—whether married or single—is to be lived out in devotion to the Lord. The chapter reflects Paul’s pastoral concern for practical holiness and gospel-centered living in all states of life.

Key points include:

The sanctity and mutual responsibilities of marriage.
The value and gift of singleness.
Remaining faithful in one’s current life situation.
Guidance on remarriage, divorce, and abstinence within marriage.

Historical and Literary Context

Historical Context

Corinth was a major Greek city known for its commercial prosperity and sexual immorality, particularly associated with pagan temple worship. The Christian converts in Corinth had many questions about how their new faith should transform their personal and marital lives. Some were overreacting to sexual sin by promoting celibacy even within marriage, while others struggled with pagan cultural norms.

Paul, writing around A.D. 55, responds to their questions (likely raised in a letter they sent him, as noted in 1 Corinthians 7:1). His answers are shaped by:

Jewish moral law and Old Testament foundations.
Christ’s teachings on marriage and divorce (Matthew 5:32; 19:1-12).
The unique eschatological urgency of the early church, believing in the imminent return of Christ.

Literary Context

1 Corinthians is a pastoral epistle, blending theological instruction with practical exhortation. Chapter 7 falls within a larger section (chs. 5–7) where Paul addresses matters of sexual morality, personal holiness, and church discipline. The chapter uses both didactic (teaching) and pastoral tones. Paul distinguishes between his apostolic guidance (v.12, “I, not the Lord”) and direct commands from Jesus (v.10, “Not I, but the Lord”), yet all remain authoritative Scripture.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

1. The Authority of Scripture in Ethical Matters

Paul’s commands are not mere opinion; they are divinely inspired (7:10, 12, 40). This affirms the sufficiency and authority of Scripture in guiding personal and relational ethics. The church must look to God’s Word—not culture—for answers about marriage, singleness, and sexual behavior.

2. The Sanctity of Marriage

Marriage is affirmed as a God-ordained covenant between one man and one woman (cf. Gen. 2:24). Paul upholds its permanence (7:10-11), mutual commitment (7:3-4), and purpose (to serve one another and prevent sexual immorality). There’s a mutuality in marriage that honors both the man and the woman equally in Christ.

3. Celibacy as a Gift, Not a Command

Singleness is not second-class in the kingdom of God. Paul affirms that singleness can be a gift from God (v.7), providing greater opportunity for undivided devotion to the Lord (v.32-35). This is a countercultural view both then and now, emphasizing that identity and worth are found in Christ, not marital status.

4. Faithfulness in One’s Calling

Paul teaches that believers should remain in the condition they were called in (v.17-24). This doesn’t promote passivity, but rather contentment and mission-minded living. Whether Jew or Gentile, slave or free, single or married—each status can serve Christ’s kingdom purposes.

5. Divorce and Remarriage

Paul reiterates Christ’s teaching that believers should not divorce (v.10-11). In mixed marriages (believer and unbeliever), if the unbelieving spouse consents to stay, the believer should not initiate separation (v.12-16). If the unbelieving spouse leaves, the believer is “not bound” (v.15), which many conservative scholars interpret as allowing remarriage in such cases, though this is debated.

6. Eschatological Urgency and Eternal Perspective

Paul’s advice in vv.29–31 reflects an urgent expectation of the Lord’s return. Christians are to live with a detached perspective from worldly concerns—not indifferent, but fully surrendered to Christ. The temporary nature of earthly conditions (marriage, mourning, joy) reminds believers of the eternal priorities of the gospel.

7. God’s Sovereignty and Providence

Throughout the chapter, Paul assumes and affirms that God sovereignly places believers in specific life circumstances (v.17). Whether married or single, our primary calling is to “live in a right way in undivided devotion to the Lord” (v.35).

Verse-by-Verse Analysis: 1 Corinthians 7

Verses 1–2

“Now for the matters you wrote about: ‘It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.’ But since sexual immorality is occurring, each man should have sexual relations with his own wife, and each woman with her own husband.”

Explanation: Paul responds to a statement from the Corinthians promoting celibacy. While celibacy is commendable, Paul corrects the false notion that abstaining from sex in marriage is inherently holier. To combat the rampant immorality in Corinth, Paul affirms the God-given institution of marriage as the proper context for sexual intimacy (see Genesis 2:24; Hebrews 13:4).

Application: Christians should uphold the biblical view of marriage and reject both promiscuity and ascetic legalism.

Verses 3–5

Paul describes mutual marital responsibilities. The husband and wife each owe one another affection and physical intimacy. Abstaining for a time is permitted only by mutual agreement for prayer.

Cross-reference: Ephesians 5:22-33 emphasizes mutual submission and love in marriage. This challenges both chauvinistic and feminist misinterpretations of gender roles.

Doctrinal Insight: Marriage reflects Christ’s love for the church. Intimacy within marriage is holy and selfless, not selfish or manipulative.

Verses 6-9

Paul expresses that singleness is a gift (v.7), but those who struggle with self-control should marry (v.9). This is not a command but a concession rooted in wisdom and pastoral care.

Cross-reference: Matthew 19:10-12, where Jesus speaks of celibacy for the sake of the kingdom.

Application: Church leaders should affirm singleness and marriage as equally honorable callings from God, countering cultural idolization of either.

Verses 10–11

Paul commands that a wife must not separate from her husband (a teaching from Jesus Himself—Mark 10:9-12). If separation occurs, reconciliation is the goal.

Theological Insight: Marriage is a covenant, not a contract. It reflects God’s faithfulness and is not to be broken lightly.

Verses 12–16

For marriages between a believer and unbeliever, if the unbeliever is willing to stay, the marriage should continue. The believing spouse brings a sanctifying influence (v.14).

Key Insight: Salvation is not guaranteed through one spouse, but godly influence can lead to eventual faith (1 Peter 3:1).

Application: Christians in mixed marriages should pursue peace and gospel witness, not hasty escape.

Verses 17–24

Paul repeats the principle of remaining in the condition in which one was called. This applies to circumcision, slavery, and by implication, marriage status.

Cross-reference: Galatians 3:28 – our identity in Christ transcends social conditions.

Doctrinal Application: Christians should seek to glorify God where they are, rather than seeking radical change for self-fulfillment.

Verses 25–28

Paul gives trustworthy counsel (not a direct command) regarding virgins and the unmarried. In view of the “present crisis” (possibly persecution or hardship), staying single may be better. However, marriage is not sinful.

Pastoral Wisdom: Leaders must balance Scriptural principles with pastoral discernment for the flock’s unique context.

Verses 29–31

Paul reminds believers that time is short. Even good things like marriage and possessions are temporary.

Cross-reference: 1 John 2:17 – “The world and its desires pass away.”

Application: Christians should live with an eternal perspective, free from entanglement in worldly concerns.

Verses 32–35

Singleness offers undivided devotion to the Lord. This is not superiority, but practicality.

Insight: Singleness allows for greater ministry flexibility and focus. Yet marriage also brings glory when centered on Christ.

Verses 36–38

Paul affirms that giving one’s daughter (or a betrothed) in marriage is not sin. Both marriage and singleness are acceptable paths.

Balance: Church teaching must not elevate one lifestyle over the other but must affirm God’s sovereignty and gifts.

Verses 39–40

A widow is free to remarry, but only in the Lord. Paul again affirms the dignity of singleness, seeing it as a gift of wisdom and devotion.

Cross-reference: Romans 7:2 – The bond of marriage is broken by death.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

1. Christ’s Lordship Over All Areas of Life

Jesus is not only Savior but also Lord over relationships. Paul consistently applies the gospel to the everyday realities of singleness, marriage, and sexuality. Whether one is married or single, the call is to live in undivided devotion to Christ (v.35).

2. Redemption Through Christ Shapes Relationships

The brokenness caused by sin—seen in divorce, lust, idolatry, or relational confusion—is healed through Christ. His atoning death and resurrection redeem not just our souls, but our relationships (Colossians 3:17).

3. Jesus as the Perfect Bridegroom

Marriage in this chapter reflects the greater reality: Christ as the bridegroom and the church as His bride (Ephesians 5:25-27; Revelation 19:7-9). Earthly marriage is temporary; the ultimate union is between Jesus and His people.

Connection to God the Father

1. The Father’s Design for Marriage

God the Father instituted marriage in Genesis 2:24. Paul builds on this by affirming the divine origin and sacredness of marriage. It is a covenant, not a cultural construct.

2. The Father’s Sovereign Call

Paul emphasizes that each person should live as the Lord assigned (v.17). This reveals the Father’s sovereignty in assigning life circumstances, whether marriage or singleness, for the good of His children and the glory of His name (Romans 8:28).

3. God’s Provision and Care

The Father’s heart is seen in the pastoral wisdom throughout this chapter. God cares deeply about the emotional, spiritual, and relational well-being of His children, and provides wisdom through Scripture to navigate complex issues.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

While the Holy Spirit is not mentioned by name in 1 Corinthians 7, His presence is clearly active in both the inspiration of the text and in the application of its wisdom to believers’ lives.

1. The Spirit Inspires Paul’s Counsel (v.40)

Paul ends the chapter saying, “And I think that I too have the Spirit of God.” This is not doubt or uncertainty. Rather, Paul affirms that his pastoral counsel comes from the Holy Spirit’s guidance—a Spirit-led discernment.

Cross-reference: 2 Peter 1:21 – “Prophets… spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.”
Application: Church leaders can trust the Spirit-inspired Word to guide complex issues like marriage, divorce, and singleness.

2. The Spirit Enables Holiness in All Callings

Whether married or single, the believer is called to live in holiness. The Spirit sanctifies (1 Thessalonians 4:3-8) and empowers believers to walk in purity, contentment, and self-control.

Marriage requires the Spirit’s fruit: love, patience, kindness (Galatians 5:22-23).
Singleness requires the Spirit’s strength for contentment and focused devotion to Christ (Philippians 4:11-13).

3. The Spirit Cultivates Undivided Devotion (v.32–35)

The goal of Paul’s teaching is “undivided devotion to the Lord.” The Holy Spirit is the one who redirects our hearts from earthly distractions toward Christ and helps us live with an eternal mindset (Romans 8:5-6).

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Living for the Lord in Every Relationship: Marriage, Singleness, and Undivided Devotion”

Text: 1 Corinthians 7

I. Honor God with Your Body and Marriage (vv.1–9)

Main Point: Marriage is God’s provision against immorality and a context for mutual love and service.
Application: Be faithful and selfless in marriage; honor your spouse as God’s gift.
Example: A Christian couple who overcame selfishness by learning to serve one another daily through Christ.

II. Persevere in Covenant Faithfulness (vv.10–16)

Main Point: God calls believers to pursue reconciliation, especially in difficult marriages.
Transition: But what about those in complex relational situations—different backgrounds or unequal faith?
Application: Seek peace and gospel witness in your home. Stay if the door remains open.
Example: A believing wife who quietly lived out her faith, leading her husband to salvation after 10 years.

III. Be Content in Your Calling (vv.17–24)

Main Point: Your worth and calling come from Christ, not your relationship status or social condition.
Application: Live faithfully where God has placed you.
Example: A single missionary who found joy in gospel ministry across cultures without the burden of family responsibilities.

IV. Live with Undivided Devotion (vv.25–40)

Main Point: The goal is not merely marriage or singleness—but undistracted devotion to the Lord.
Application: Prioritize the eternal. Hold loosely to earthly attachments.
Call to Action: Ask God how you can serve Him with your current life and relationships.

Conclusion:

Whether you are married or single, widowed or engaged, God has called you to faithfulness, contentment, and gospel-centered living. Don’t wait for a change in relationship status to serve God. Serve Him now. Let your heart be captivated not by your situation, but by your Savior.

Illustrations and Examples

1. A Wedding vs. A Marriage

Illustration: Many people spend months planning a wedding day, but few prepare for a lifetime of godly marriage. Paul’s teaching redirects the focus from externals to ongoing devotion. It’s not about the big day, but the daily sacrifice.

2. The Cellphone Analogy

Just as a cellphone can be full of apps, texts, and distractions that drain battery and pull attention away from what matters, so too can relationships—if not centered in Christ—distract from our mission. But in the right setting (like marriage rooted in Christ), it becomes a tool for connection, growth, and purpose.

3. Missionary Jim Elliot and Singleness for the Kingdom

Jim Elliot, who remained single into his late twenties, once wrote, “He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep to gain what he cannot lose.” His singleness allowed him to fully invest in God’s mission before marriage—and ultimately lay down his life for the gospel.

4. A Widow’s Undivided Devotion

A faithful elderly widow in the church, no longer tied to daily responsibilities of marriage, serves as a constant prayer warrior, discipling young women and interceding for the lost. Her example displays Paul‘s vision in verses 39–40.

Application for Today’s Christian

1 Corinthians 7 offers believers timeless wisdom for godly living in all relational states—married, single, widowed, or divorced. It speaks directly into the challenges of discipleship, stewardship of relationships, and living in the light of eternity.

1. Discipleship in Relationships

Married believers must view their spouse as a primary ministry. Show Christ through self-sacrificial love (Ephesians 5:25) and commitment to purity (Hebrews 13:4).
Single believers should embrace this season as a time for growth, service, and deeper focus on Christ (1 Corinthians 7:32-35). Don’t treat singleness as a waiting room.
Those in difficult marriages are called to peace and gospel witness (v.15–16), trusting God with their spouse’s heart.

Practical Tip: Create a rhythm of praying with your spouse or using singleness to mentor others in the faith.

2. Stewardship of Calling and Contentment

Whatever your season, steward it well. Don’t rush to change your status to feel more “complete.” True contentment is found in Christ alone (Philippians 4:11–13).
Steward your time, relationships, and emotional energy toward gospel ends—not just personal comfort or worldly achievement.

Practical Tip: Ask yourself weekly—how am I using my current season to advance the kingdom of God?

3. Living with an Eternal Perspective

Paul’s reminder that “time is short” (v.29) speaks directly to a culture obsessed with romance, status, and material success. Let all relationships serve the greater goal of knowing Christ and making Him known.

Practical Tip: Write down one way to live more simply and missionally this week, whether you’re single or married.

Connection to God’s Love

Though this chapter is filled with practical instructions, the heart of God’s love is woven throughout its counsel.

1. God Cares Deeply About Our Relationships

Far from being a distant God, the Lord gives detailed instruction for the most intimate and personal parts of life. He cares about marriages, broken homes, and the burdens of singleness. His Word is not silent in our struggles—it is rich in wisdom and grace.

Psalm 34:18: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”

2. God’s Love Is Not Dependent on Our Marital Status

Whether you are married, divorced, widowed, or single, you are fully loved and accepted in Christ. This chapter demolishes the lie that our worth is tied to our relationship status. God’s love is rooted in His character, not in our circumstances.

Romans 8:38-39: Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ—not even loneliness or relational pain.

3. God Redeems Broken Stories

Even in the case of separation, abandonment, or heartache (vv.10–16), God does not abandon His children. He offers peace, hope, and often—restoration. While not all stories end in earthly reconciliation, they can be redeemed for His glory.

Broader Biblical Themes

1. Creation and God’s Design

This chapter reaffirms the Genesis 2:24 truth: marriage is a divine institution, not a human invention. Sexual intimacy, gender roles, and covenantal love are all rooted in the creation order.

2. Redemption and Gospel Transformation

Paul’s pastoral approach is soaked in redemptive hope. The gospel transforms how we see marriage, singleness, and even suffering. The gospel gives purpose to our season and healing for our scars.

Titus 2:11-12 – The grace of God teaches us to say “no” to worldly passions and “yes” to godliness.

3. Covenant and Faithfulness

Marriage is covenantal—reflecting God’s faithful, never-abandoning love for His people. In the same way, singleness reflects the sufficiency of Christ and the believer’s direct union with Him. Each relational state points us to a deeper spiritual reality: God’s unchanging commitment to His people.

4. Eschatology and Eternal Perspective

Paul urges believers to live in light of the Lord’s return (v.29–31). Earthly relationships are important, but they are temporary signposts to a greater reality: the coming kingdom where the Lamb is the Bridegroom, and we are His redeemed bride (Revelation 21:2).

Reflection Questions

Use these questions for personal meditation, discipleship settings, or group discussion. Each one is designed to draw out deeper reflection on how 1 Corinthians 7 applies to real life, aligning with biblical truth and Christ’s call to holiness.

1. What season of life has God called you to right now—married, single, divorced, widowed? How are you stewarding that season for His glory?

Reflect on how you can serve God with faithfulness where you are.
What challenges and opportunities does your current situation present?

2. In what ways has the culture around you shaped your view of marriage or singleness more than Scripture?

How can the truth of God’s Word correct or reshape those beliefs?
Are you placing expectations on yourself or others that are not biblical?

3. How can married couples cultivate mutual love, service, and spiritual growth in their relationship in light of verses 1–5?

Are there areas where you need to grow in selflessness?
How does your marriage reflect Christ and the Church?

4. If you are single, how does Paul’s teaching in this chapter encourage you?

What does “undivided devotion to the Lord” look like in your daily life?
How can you serve the church or community in this season?

5. How does knowing your identity in Christ help you find peace, whether you are married or single?

Are you basing your joy and self-worth on your relationship status?
How can you refocus your heart on your identity in Christ?

6. How do you respond to difficult relationships—particularly in marriage or family life? Are you seeking peace, or trying to escape discomfort?

Consider verses 12–16. Are there opportunities for faithful witness even in a hard situation?
Are you praying for reconciliation or harboring resentment?

7. How often do you consider eternity in your daily decisions and relationships (vv.29–31)?

What might change if you lived with eternity in view?
What distractions might be keeping you from focusing on what truly matters?

8. Have you surrendered your relationship status, personal plans, or expectations to God’s sovereign will (v.17–24)?

Are you trusting that God has placed you where you are for a reason?
How can you live more contentedly in your current calling?

9. What does faithfulness look like in your relationships this week?

What’s one action step you can take—whether it’s reconciling with someone, serving your spouse, or stepping into a ministry opportunity as a single person?

10. How has God shown His love and faithfulness to you in your relationships, even when things didn’t go as planned?

How can you share that testimony with someone else for encouragement?