Topic Study: God, Sex & Celibacy (1 Corinthians 7)
Summary
We are often told about the problem of type 2 Diabetes. There is a spiritual disease pervading our community. (v39,40).
1 Corinthians was written against the background of the situation in Corinth. Chapter 7 deals with problems of sex, divorce, celibacy, widows etc.
1. The issue of Widows. Marriage is not eternal, it ceases on death of one of the partners. Marriage begins when a man and women 'contract' publicly agree to stay together. (v39). Human marriage is a covenant or contract. Also, a Christian can only marry a Christian.
2. Objections to Christian view of marriage.
(a) If God can bring out of marrying an unbeliever, does that justify it. No. While God in mercy can bring good from evil, it doesn't justify us doing the wrong.
(b) If two unbelievers are living together, and one becomes a Christian. Maybe they have Children.
3. Why do we disobey God on marriage, when the Bible is so clear. We only understand God's plan when we rest in God alone. Psalm 62:1. Sin is when we try to 'rest' in something other than God. We can worship marriage - by marrying a non-christian, is really saying 'rest' is found in romance.
Marriage in itself cannot fulfil us. Our spouses cannot give us all that God can give us. It is two contented people in Christ, that can make a good marriage.
4. Conclusions. How to deal with common situations.
