1 Corinthians 7
We live in a world full of expectations. Society constantly tells us what we “should” be doing—having a high-paying job, getting married, owning a home, having kids, and then having the “right” kind of family, lifestyle, and achievements. And if we don’t fit this mold? Society subtly (or not-so-subtly) implies that we’re “doing life wrong.”
This unspoken pressure to measure up can lead to a restless chase for peace and contentment, making us feel as if we’re always one change or achievement away from happiness. The Corinthian church, too, faced intense societal pressures, with questions surrounding marriage, sexuality, and cultural norms. In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul addresses these questions directly, offering a refreshing perspective on finding fulfillment and peace, not in worldly achievements or status, but in our relationship with Christ.
Marriage and Singleness: Both Gifts of Grace
Paul’s first point is counter-cultural even today: both marriage and singleness are gifts from God. Society often glorifies marriage as the ultimate goal for happiness and personal fulfillment. In contrast, Paul calls both states “gifts” and asserts that each has its own unique way of serving and honoring God.
For those who are married, Paul emphasizes that marriage is a God-given relationship that should reflect Christ’s love for His Church (Ephesians 5:22-25). Rather than an end in itself, marriage is meant to glorify God. It is a sacred union that points to the steadfast love and commitment between Christ and His people.
At the same time, Paul recognizes singleness as a unique opportunity to pursue undivided devotion to the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:32-35). In a society that often portrays singleness as a phase to be endured until marriage, Paul’s teaching is a powerful reminder that singleness is not a lesser state. It is a unique calling that allows one to serve and focus on God without distraction.
Faithfulness to God Over Societal Expectations
Marriage and singleness each come with their own responsibilities, but neither should define us or be our primary source of fulfillment. Paul points out that married individuals naturally carry concerns for their spouses, while single individuals can focus more solely on the things of God. However, he does not command one over the other; rather, he calls us to serve God faithfully wherever we are.
Whether single, married, or widowed, we’re encouraged to use our position to glorify God. In doing so, Paul reminds us that our happiness, peace, and identity are not found in marital status, wealth, or career accomplishments, but in our faithful relationship with Christ. When we center our identity on Christ, we find a lasting contentment that transcends circumstances and social norms.
Commitment in Marriage
In addressing marriage directly, Paul emphasizes the importance of commitment. Today, there are countless reasons people cite for leaving their marriages, ranging from “falling out of love” to a vague sense of dissatisfaction. Yet, Paul calls Christians to a higher standard, encouraging them to uphold their marriage vows with intentionality and sacrifice.
Marriage, as Paul presents it, is not a romanticized dream of “happily ever after” but a commitment that requires love, service, and selflessness. Jesus’ unwavering commitment to the Church should inspire us to invest in and renew our marriages. While there are certainly valid reasons for separation in cases of abuse or continual unfaithfulness, Paul’s words urge us to examine our hearts and motives honestly before making decisions that go against God’s intent for marriage.
Contentment in Christ
Perhaps the most powerful message of 1 Corinthians 7 is Paul’s call to contentment, regardless of our circumstances. “Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called,” Paul writes (1 Corinthians 7:20). For Paul, this doesn’t mean complacency but rather a challenge to find peace and purpose in Christ.
Our culture tells us that contentment is just one change away—a new relationship, job, or move. But Paul reminds us that our contentment comes not from external changes but from an internal, unshakeable relationship with Christ. As he writes in Philippians 4:11-13, Paul learned “the secret of being content in any and every situation,” finding strength and sufficiency through Christ alone.
Living Out God’s Call Wherever We Are
Paul’s words offer us a refreshing perspective in a world that constantly demands more. Whether we’re single, married, or somewhere in between, our calling remains the same: to pursue faithful devotion to God and to let His love shape our lives. When we root ourselves in Christ, we discover a peace that surpasses the fleeting promises of worldly satisfaction.
As we move forward, let’s focus on God’s direction for our lives, trust in His timing, and embrace the unique season we are in with gratitude. Instead of looking for happiness in new situations or societal expectations, let’s find our deepest fulfillment and joy in our relationship with Jesus. True contentment, after all, is not found in our circumstances but in Christ alone.