1 Corinthians 7:36-40

§ 24. FREEDOM TO MARRY. The question of the marriage of Cor [1201] Christian maidens Paul has discussed on grounds of expediency. The narrow earthly horizon, the perils of the Christian lot, the division between religious and domestic duty esp. probable under these conditions, render the married state undesirable (1 Corinthians 7:28-34). The Ap. does not on these grounds forbid marriage, to do so would entangle some of his readers perilously; he recommends what appears to him the course generally fitting, and advantageous for their spiritual interests (1 Corinthians 7:35 f.). If the parent's judgment points the other way, or if circumstances are such as to enforce consent, then so let it be (1 Corinthians 7:36). But where the father can thus decide without misgiving, he will do well to keep his daughter at home (1 Corinthians 7:37 f.). Similarly in the case of the Christian widow : she is free to marry “in the Lord”; but, in Paul's decided opinion, she will be happier to refrain (1 Corinthians 7:39 f.). The Ap. gives inspired advice, and the bias of his own mind is clearly seen; but he finds no sin in marriage; he guards sensitively the rights of individual feeling and conscience, and leaves the decision in each case to the responsible parties.

[1201] Corinth, Corinthian or Corinthians.