Stand Out: Living for Christ in a Corrupt WorldSample

Marriage is a Covenant, Not a Contract

7:1-11: In this passage, Apostle Paul addresses several issues. He talks about sexuality in marriage (vv. 1-7), marriage and celibacy for the unmarried and widows (vv. 8-9), and divorce for married Christians (v. 10-11).

The city of Corinth was known for its sexual immorality and religious prostitution. The believers needed some instructions regarding sex and marriage. So, Paul addresses these issues in chapter 7. He commands the Corinthians to be faithful in their marriages. He also asks them to avoid divorce.

The Roman law allowed either a husband or a wife to initiate a divorce without any legitimate reason. But Paul emphasizes the permanence of marriage. His teaching is based on Jesus’ command (Mt. 5:32; 19:9; Mk 10:11; Lk. 16:18). The Bible demands high standards for marriage as it is a covenant before God, not a contract made by humans. Follow the standards of the Word, not the world. Be faithful to your spouse.

Prayer: Lord, help me to honor you by being faithful to my spouse.