Chapter 7
The
apostle answers several questions about marriage
|
1–9
|
Married
Christians should not seek to part from their unbelieving consorts
|
10–16
|
Persons,
in any fixed station, should usually abide in that
|
17–24
|
It
was most desirable, on account of the then perilous days, for people to sit
loose to this world
|
25–35
|
Great
prudence be used in marriage; it should be only in the Lord
|
36–40
|
Verses 1–9
The
apostle tells the Corinthians that it was good, in that juncture of time, for
Christians to keep themselves single. Yet he says that marriage, and the
comforts of that state, are settled by Divine wisdom. Though none may break the
law of God, yet that perfect rule leaves men at liberty to serve him in the way
most suited to their powers and circumstances, of which others often are very
unfit judges. All must determine for themselves, seeking counsel from God how
they ought to act.
Verses 10–16
Man and wife
must not separate for any other cause than what Christ allows. Divorce, at that
time, was very common among both Jews and Gentiles, on very slight pretexts.
Marriage is a Divine institution; and is an engagement for life, by God’s
appointment. We are bound, as much as in us lies, to live peaceably with all
men, Ro 12:18, therefore to promote the peace and comfort of our nearest
relatives, though unbelievers. It should be the labour and study of those who
are married, to make each other as easy and happy as possible. Should a
Christian desert a husband or wife, when there is opportunity to give the
greatest proof of love? Stay, and labour heartily for the conversion of thy
relative. In every state and relation the Lord has called us to peace; and
every thing should be done to promote harmony, as far as truth and holiness
will permit.
Verses 17–24
The rules
of Christianity reach every condition; and in every state a man may live so as
to be a credit to it. It is the duty of every Christian to be content with his
lot, and to conduct himself in his rank and place as becomes a Christian. Our
comfort and happiness depend on what we are to Christ, not what we are in the
world. No man should think to make his faith or religion, an argument to break
through any natural or civil obligations. He should quietly and contentedly
abide in the condition in which he is placed by Divine Providence.
Verses 25–35
Considering
the distress of those times, the unmarried state was best. Notwithstanding, the
apostle does not condemn marriage. How opposite are those to the apostle Paul
who forbid many to marry, and entangle them with vows to remain single, whether
they ought to do so or not! He exhorts all Christians to holy indifference
toward the world. As to relations; they must not set their hearts on the
comforts of the state. As to afflictions; they must not indulge the sorrow of
the world: even in sorrow the heart may be joyful. As to worldly enjoyments;
here is not their rest. As to worldly employment; those that prosper in trade,
and increase in wealth, should hold their possessions as though they held them
not. As to all worldly concerns; they must keep the world out of their hearts,
that they may not abuse it when they have it in their hands. All worldly things
are show; nothing solid. All will be quickly gone. Wise concern about worldly
interests is a duty; but to be full of care, to have anxious and perplexing
care, is a sin. By this maxim the apostle solves the case whether it were
advisable to marry. That condition of life is best for every man, which is best
for his soul, and keeps him most clear of the cares and snares of the world.
Let us reflect on the advantages and snares of our own condition in life; that
we may improve the one, and escape as far as possible all injury from the
other. And whatever cares press upon the mind, let time still be kept for the
things of the Lord.
Verses 36–40
The
apostle is thought to give advice here about the disposal of children in
marriage. In this view, the general meaning is plain. Children should seek and
follow the directions of their parents as to marriage. And parents should
consult their children’s wishes; and not reckon they have power to do with
them, and dictate just as they please, without reason. The whole is closed with
advice to widows. Second marriages are not unlawful, so that it is kept in
mind, to marry in the Lord. In our choice of relations, and change of
conditions, we should always be guided by the fear of God, and the laws of God,
and act in dependence on the providence of God. Change of condition ought only
to be made after careful consideration, and on probable grounds, that it will be
to advantage in our spiritual concerns.
Excerpt from:
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible
Matthew Henry (1662 - 1714)
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