1 Corinthians: Not in Vainနမူနာ

Can you imagine being so devoted to Jesus Christ that before you made any major decision you first considered how it impacted on your commitment to Jesus? 

Perhaps we can often assume we have a right to various life choices and decisions, taking our cue from the good-life that the media encourages us to aspire to. We plan out our lives and run through our options, but how often do we consider how these changes affect our devotion to Christ? 

In stark contrast, Paul encourages us to consider ‘remaining’ (v. 26) in our present situation. Of course, the grass often seems greener elsewhere; we think ‘if only’ our situation changed, then we’d experience more personal fulfilment, or perhaps even be more spiritually effective. 

Paul’s point is that such a preoccupation with change can indicate we’re enamoured by this present world. The particular example under the spotlight is marriage. Getting married is something we’re free to do or not do. It’s not that either choice is inherently right or wrong (v. 28). And yet those weighing up marriage should take time to consider why they’re seeking to marry. 

For a start, marriage is an unparalleled commitment. To have and to hold ’til death us do part is something that completely changes our lives. We’re making a commitment to another person which will, quite rightly, impact upon how committed we can be to other things (vv. 33–34). In that sense those who marry are choosing to take on new troubles and challenges (v. 28). Maybe ‘remaining’ single is the wise choice for us. 

There are probably various scenarios that Paul is aware of as he writes. Firstly, it seems there are marriage engagements being unhelpfully delayed, leading to sinful behaviour (vv. 36–38) and unkind treatment of those who are engaged. The last thing Paul wants is for his teaching on ‘remaining’ to be an excuse for lust or cruelty. Secondly, in cases where a spouse has died, then remarriage for the widow is a free choice. And yet Paul again notes that considering one’s devotion to Christ may mean you choose to stay single (vv. 39–40). 

The backdrop to this passage is the same as the backdrop to the whole letter: Paul wants us to see that the world in its ‘present form’ is passing away (v. 31), but there is a resurrection reality to come. Therefore time is short (v. 29). This is probably also what Paul means when he refers to the ‘crisis’ (v. 26).

Reflection

Do you think about your relationship with God as being devotional? 

In what ways are you divided in your devotion?