Sermon Notes

The Situation – Should we get married or stay single?

Now for the matters you wrote about: “It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.” – 1 Cor 7:1

The Corinthian church was established in a spiritually challenging environment. Corinth was infamous for sexual immorality, idolatry, the influence of Greek philosophy, and the presence of extreme societal views (see Acts 18).

Two opposing perspectives within this culture influenced the Christians in Corinth and prompted them to seek Paul’s advice:

1. Abstinence perspective – This view taught that marriage and sexual relations should be avoided because spiritual things are good and physical things are inherently bad.
2. Hedonistic perspective – This belief held that God is unconcerned with physical actions, so people are free to do whatever they wish with their bodies, since God is only interested in spiritual matters.

Application

The Christians in Corinth faced significant pressure from worldly influences and societal expectations, even as they sought to honour God in their new life with Jesus. Similarly, we may encounter challenges to conform to cultural norms or experience pressure within the church regarding relationships. In all aspects of life, it is vital to seek wisdom from God’s Word and receive guidance from mature, experienced Christian leaders like Paul.

The Problem – Have we made marriage the pinnacle of life’s experience?

“It is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman” – v1

“Now to the unmarried and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.”- v8

• Paul encouraged the Corinthian church by affirming that both marriage and singleness are gifts ordained by God (see v7).

• In response to the two extreme views mentioned earlier, Paul emphasised that both marriage and singleness have their place in God’s will, and believers can thrive in their walk with God in either circumstance.

Application

We can be grateful that our local church reflects the teaching of 1 Corinthians 7. Whether you are married, desire marriage, are widowed, or have no desire for marriage, both marriage and singleness are gifts from God.

The Solution & Celebration – you can thrive in life for Jesus and be single

“I wish that all of you were as I am”…v7

• Paul was able to commend the single life from his own personal experience as an unmarried man serving Jesus in ministry.

• His marital status did not prevent or limit him from thriving in life and ministry for Christ.

• As a single man, Paul embarked on three missionary journeys, established churches, preached and taught in numerous towns and cities, mentored and trained leaders, and authored thirteen books of the New Testament.

Application

¹¹ I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. ¹² I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.¹³ I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

Discussion Questions

1. How should Christians view singleness in light of this passage?
2. What does Paul mean when he describes singleness as a “gift from God”?
3. The sermon highlighted that people often feel pressured to be in a relationship—by society, family, friends, or even the church. Have you ever experienced this? How would you encourage a single Christian who feels this pressure today?
4. In what ways can the church better support and equally value both married people and singles?
5. At first glance, 1 Corinthians 7 might suggest that marriage is simply a solution for those struggling with sexual self-control. Is this a good reason to get married? What do you think Paul is really addressing in this passage?
6. What are some benefits and challenges of both marriage and singleness when it comes to life and serving the Lord?