Lesson 4793

(Lesson 4793) (03-20-25) 1st Corinthians 7:29-40 

   “But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none; And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not; And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away. But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband. And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction. But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry. Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well. So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better. The wife is bound by the law as long as her husband liveth; but if her husband be dead, she is at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord. But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.” 

 

   In today’s quote, Paul emphasized the temporary nature of this world and urged believers to live with an eternal perspective. He advised that those who were married should not be consumed by worldly concerns, as time was short. He encouraged believers to live as though they were not fully engrossed in their current circumstances—whether in sorrow, joy, or material possessions—because the present form of the world is going to pass away. He explained that unmarried individuals could devote themselves more fully to the Lord, while married individuals naturally have obligations to their spouses. He clarified that he was not imposing a restriction but offering wisdom to help them serve God without distraction. Regarding widows, Paul stated that they were free to remarry if they wished, but only to another believer. However, he concluded that a widow would be happier if she remained single, according to his judgment, and he believed this advice was guided by the Holy Spirit. ~