http://6 Devoted to Christ: Marrying When Time is Short 1 Corinthians 7:1-40 Corinth, unlike most modern cities today, did not have sex shops, Playboy magazines, porn videos and "adult entertainment" centers. But there was so much sexual immorality that the ancients had a word to describe engaging in raw sensual pleasure—to Corinthianize. In 1 Cor. 6 Paul dealt with those who justified a permissive lifestyle in the name of Christian freedom. In 1 Cor. 7 he battles on the opposite front. Some Corinthians claimed sex was sinful—or at least a second-class diversion—even in marriage. In response Paul answers questions about marriage, sexuality and singleness. 1. What types of questions do Christians today ask about sex and marriage? 2. Read 1 Cor. 7:1-9, where Paul answers questions about sex. Although Paul agrees that celibacy is good (1 Cor. 7:1), why is it impractical for most people (1 Cor. 7:2, 7)? 3. What practical advice does Paul give to the unmarried and the married for avoiding sexual immorality (1 Cor. 7:2-9)? 4. Paul's emphasis is not on what a spouse should expect but what a spouse should give (1 Cor. 7:3-5). Why is this emphasis important? 5. Read 1 Cor. 7:10-16, where Paul answers questions about marriage and divorce. How do his statements "to the married" (1 Cor. 7:10-11) affirm what the Lord had already taught (see Mark 10:2-12)? 6. In 1 Cor. 7:12-16 Paul discusses a situation not covered by the Lord—marriages between Christians and non-Christians. Why might a Christian be tempted to divorce a non-Christian? According to Paul, what are some benefits of remaining in a mixed marriage? Explain. 7. Under what circumstances would Paul seemingly allow for divorce, and why (1 Cor. 7:15-16)? Why is Paul's instruction here not an "easy way out"? 8. What principles from this passage could help us care for Christians who are considering separation or divorce? 9. Read 1 Cor. 7:17-24, where Paul counsels those who think they are in the wrong situation. How does Paul explain and illustrate the "rule" that applies to such people? 10. Paul speaks of God calling us to a certain situation (1 Cor. 7:17, 24) and of God calling us while we were in that situation (1 Cor. 7:18-22). How are these two dimensions of calling different? What difference should being called by God make if we are in a difficult marriage or an unsatisfying job? 11. Read 1 Cor. 7:24-40, where Paul addresses those considering marriage. Why does Paul call singleness a "better" way (1 Cor. 7:38) and a "happier" way (1 Cor. 7:40) when he has such a high view of marriage? 12. Taking the chapter as a whole, what considerations would help a couple decide whether to marry, to wait or to separate? 13. Ask God to help you to be faithful to him in your relationships, your job and the other areas of your life. LifeGuide Bible Studies - LifeGuide Bible Studies – 1 Corinthians: The Challenges of Life Together.