1. "Now Concerning"—Reply To Their Letter –
Liberty In Christ – 7:1-16:4
Questions On Marriage
(Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties)
1 Corinthians 7:1-40

2. Principles of Marriage
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Principles of Marriage
1 Corinthians 7:1-9
Marriage not advisable due to the “current distress” (vs. 26)– but marriage is preferred over the sin of fornication – (7:1,2)
Both husbands and wives are to fulfill marital responsibilities to one another – if there is a need for fasting and prayer – it must be a temporary separation and by the consent of both parties – (7:3-5)
Marriage is a liberty – not a requirement – (7:6-9)
It ignores marital responsibilities (1 Cor. 7:3-5; Eph. 5:22-33; 1 Pet. 3:1-7)
Husband COMMANDED to Love his wife – Wives COMMANDED to Submit to (Eph. 5:22-24)
Ephes. 5:22-33 (NKJV) Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. [23] For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. [24] Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. [25] Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, [28] So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. [29] For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. [30] For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. [31] "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." [33] Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
Love husband (Tit. 2:4)
Titus 2:4 (NKJV) that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,
Husbands to Know and honor (1 Pet. 3:7)
1 Peter 3:1-7 (NKJV) [7] Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
Both husband & wife to satisfy sexual needs (1 Cor. 7:1-5)
1 Cor. 7:3-5 (NKJV) Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. [4] The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. [5] Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

3. Marriage Vows To Be Kept
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Marriage Vows To Be Kept
1 Corinthians 7:10-16
Do NOT DIVORCE – but if the sin of DIVORCE occurs – there are only TWO options unless the exception of Mat 19:9 applies - (7:10,11)
Christians married to unbelievers must not DIVORCE their unbelieving spouses - they may even save their spouse – but if the unbeliever leaves, the Christian must hold fast to the Lord – (7:12-16; cf. 1 Pet. 3:1,2)
It ignores marital responsibilities (1 Cor. 7:3-5; Eph. 5:22-33; 1 Pet. 3:1-7)
Husband COMMANDED to Love his wife – Wives COMMANDED to Submit to (Eph. 5:22-24)
Ephes. 5:22-33 (NKJV) Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord. [23] For the husband is head of the wife, as also Christ is head of the church; and He is the Savior of the body. [24] Therefore, just as the church is subject to Christ, so let the wives be to their own husbands in everything. [25] Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her, [28] So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself. [29] For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church. [30] For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. [31] "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh." [33] Nevertheless let each one of you in particular so love his own wife as himself, and let the wife see that she respects her husband.
Love husband (Tit. 2:4)
Titus 2:4 (NKJV) that they admonish the young women to love their husbands, to love their children,
Husbands to Know and honor (1 Pet. 3:7)
1 Peter 3:1-7 (NKJV) [7] Husbands, likewise, dwell with them with understanding, giving honor to the wife, as to the weaker vessel, and as being heirs together of the grace of life, that your prayers may not be hindered.
Both husband & wife to satisfy sexual needs (1 Cor. 7:1-5)
1 Cor. 7:3-5 (NKJV) Let the husband render to his wife the affection due her, and likewise also the wife to her husband. [4] The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. And likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does. [5] Do not deprive one another except with consent for a time, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again so that Satan does not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.

4. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 17 But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord has called each one, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all the churches. 18 Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God is what matters.

5. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 20 Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. 21 Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it. 22 For he who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord's freedman. Likewise he who is called while free is Christ's slave. 23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. 24 Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called.

6. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 25 Now concerning virgins: I have no commandment from the Lord; yet I give judgment as one whom the Lord in His mercy has made trustworthy. 26 I suppose therefore that this is good because of the present distress--that it is good for a man to remain as he is: 27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife.

7. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 28 But even if you do marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Nevertheless such will have trouble in the flesh, but I would spare you. 29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none,

8. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 30 those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, 31 and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away. 32 But I want you to be without care. He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord--how he may please the Lord.

9. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 33 But he who is married cares about the things of the world--how he may please his wife. 34 There is a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world--how she may please her husband.

10. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 35 And this I say for your own profit, not that I may put a leash on you, but for what is proper, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction. 36 But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry.

11. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 37 Nevertheless he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity, but has power over his own will, and has so determined in his heart that he will keep his virgin, does well. 38 So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better.

12. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
1 Corinthians 7:17-40 (NKJV) 39 A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. 40 But she is happier if she remains as she is, according to my judgment--and I think I also have the Spirit of God.

13. Serving God Where You Are
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Serving God Where You Are
1 Corinthians 7:17-24
Social status does not make one more spiritual – but keeping the commandments of God is what matters – (7:17-19)
Be content with your social status – belonging to the Lord is what matters – (7:20-23)
Serve God in what ever state you are called – (circumcised or uncircumcised; slave or free; married or unmarried) – (7:24)
'This command to remain in the circumstances in which one has been called has been given applications which Paul never intended for it to bear since the very earliest of Christian exegesis. In the days of Tertullian ( A.D.), "manufacturers of idols...claimed this principle as justifying their continuing to earn a living in this way." Some among us today want to use this passage to justify the continuance of a marital relationship which the Scriptures label as adulterous.'
     Willis p. 234

14. Serving God Where You Are
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Serving God Where You Are
1 Corinthians 7:18,19
Being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God – therefore a change in what constitutes God's commandments has occurred. (cf. Gal. 5:6; 6:15; Col 2:14-17; Eph 2:14-16)
We are no longer under the Law of Moses, but the Law of Christ which contains the "commandments" of God for Christians to obey. (Mat 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
'This command to remain in the circumstances in which one has been called has been given applications which Paul never intended for it to bear since the very earliest of Christian exegesis. In the days of Tertullian ( A.D.), "manufacturers of idols...claimed this principle as justifying their continuing to earn a living in this way." Some among us today want to use this passage to justify the continuance of a marital relationship which the Scriptures label as adulterous.'
     Willis p. 234

15. Serving God Where You Are
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Serving God Where You Are
1 Corinthians 7:20-22
'The central and important issue with Paul was not the external circumstances, but one's response to the call of God. Paul is not saying: "Is your calling to slavery?" He did say: "Were you called (while) being a bondservant?" Well, then, while you are a slave, walk as one called by God. Slavery doesn't prevent you from living like Christ.'
(McGuiggan p. 110)
'This command to remain in the circumstances in which one has been called has been given applications which Paul never intended for it to bear since the very earliest of Christian exegesis. In the days of Tertullian ( A.D.), "manufacturers of idols...claimed this principle as justifying their continuing to earn a living in this way." Some among us today want to use this passage to justify the continuance of a marital relationship which the Scriptures label as adulterous.'
     Willis p. 234

16. Serving God Where You Are
Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Serving God Where You Are
Acceptable Status!
Circumcised? (18,19)
Born a slave? (22,23)
Married? (10-16)
Unmarried? (8,15, 27)
Need to marry? (9,28)
Unacceptable Status!
Thief?
Drunkard?
Homosexual?
Adulterer?
Denominational?
'This command to remain in the circumstances in which one has been called has been given applications which Paul never intended for it to bear since the very earliest of Christian exegesis. In the days of Tertullian ( A.D.), "manufacturers of idols...claimed this principle as justifying their continuing to earn a living in this way." Some among us today want to use this passage to justify the continuance of a marital relationship which the Scriptures label as adulterous.'
     Willis p. 234

17. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:25,26
'Now concerning virgins'-'the opening words of this phrase suggest that this was a specific question raised in the Corinthian's letter.' (F.F. Bruce p. 73)
“Virgins”-in the context we find advice given to both unmarried men (7:26-28a) and women (7:28,34,36-37).
“but I give my judgment,” – inspired advice – (7:25; vs. 6,7)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

18. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:27
'bound unto a wife?'-'didst thou marry at one time, and art thou thus married now?' (Lenski p. 313) 'Are you married?' (NIV) (1 Cor. 7:39; Romans 7:2)
'Seek not to be loosed'-'do not be seeking' (Gr. Ex. N.T. p. 832) 'Present active imperative.."Do not be seeking release."' (Robertson p. 132)
Implies that some in Corinth were pro-divorce for "spiritual" reasons.
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

19. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:28
The unmarried may marry & not be guilty of sin – Paul clarifies his statement – “are you loosed from a wife do not seek a wife”
Must be understood in light of other scripture – Paul is not permitting those unscripturally divorced to remarry!! - (Mat 5:32; 19:9; Rom 7:3)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

20. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:29-31
Christians must remember that we can't elevate any of the things of this life above God.
There's nothing wrong with recreation, entertainment, family events, or social activities- but we must keep all such things in proper perspective - (Mat 6:33)
Appreciate the good things of this life, but we must be willing to sacrifice them, if need be - (1 Tim 4:4; Luke 14:33)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

21. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
“But I want you to be without care” - 'He closed verse 28 by saying he wished to help them avoid pain. He repeats that in 32. Marriage brings vulnerability with it.' (McGuiggan p. 117)
‘Things of the world'- i.e. not sinful things - but the things necessary for one’s spouse and family. i.e. - how they may please each other (33,34) - (cf. Eph 5:25-29; 1 Peter 3:7; Col 3:19; Deut. 24:5)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

22. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Marriage isn't for the selfish! A God given obligation in marriage is to "please" the partner in the marriage. A "normal" marriage from God's point of view, is one in which both partners are "concerned" about "pleasing" the other.
A.T. Robertson - 'But, alas, how many unmarried women (and men) are after the things of the world today and lead a fast and giddy life.' (p. 134; 1931)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

23. Concerning Virgins Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Virgins
1 Corinthians 7:36-38 (NKJV)
36 But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry. 37 Nevertheless he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity, but has power over his own will, and has so determined in his heart that he will keep his virgin, does well. 38 So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better.
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

24. Concerning Widows Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Widows
1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (NKJV)
39 A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord. 40 But she is happier if she remains as she is, according to my judgment--and I think I also have the Spirit of God.
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

25. Concerning Widows Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Widows
1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (NKJV)
'so long time'-cf. "while" of Rom 7:2.
'she is free to be married'-'The widow is permitted to remarry (though many Jews didn't like that view).' (McGuiggan p. 118)
'to whom she will'- Being a widow - she had full freedom to make her choice - in contrast to a daughter still at home.
'only in the Lord'-various views exist as to what this statement means.
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

26. Concerning Widows Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Widows
1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (NKJV)
Her liberty is limited – 1. The marriage must be lawful! – 2. To marry only in the Lord -
Lipscomb & Shepherd – “Only in the Lord - This prohibits the widow marrying one not a Christian”
“. . . She should take care that whom she marries is not within the line prohibited by the Lord.” – John Gill
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

27. Concerning Widows Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Widows
1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (NKJV)
Requires “. . . Christian motives' 'Yet many take "in the Lord" in a wider sense, namely, "in a Christian way", or "in the fear of the Lord . . .” (Lenski p. 331)
Her choice of marriage is to be “only in the Lord,” not necessarily the person she marries (cf Eph 6:1).
'This is not so much a command that she may not marry outside the Lord as it is good sense” - (Fee p. 356; i.e. Willis 258)
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

28. Concerning Widows Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Concerning Widows
1 Corinthians 7:39-40 (NKJV)
But she is happier if she remains as she is, according to my judgment— (compare with 1 Timothy 5:14)
Paul claims that the Holy Spirit is the source of his counsel – “inspiration.”
Paul has been dealing largely with things that fall under the heading of “Authorized Liberties” – or “Expedients.”
However - his counsel in these areas has been guided by Divine wisdom.
Modern Applications:
1. Being white is nothing and being black is nothing. Paul reveals that all ethnic backgrounds are irrelevant concerning one's acceptance with God.
2. The same is true concerning gender. (Galatians 3:28)
'but the keeping of the commandments of God'-'obedience to God's commandments is everything.' (Wey); 'but what matter's is the keeping of the commandments of God' (NASV)
'Paul simply cannot allow a religious statement like "circumcision counts for nothing" to be turned into "obedience to the will of God counts for nothing."' (Fee p. 314)
Points to Note:
1. Obviously, being circumcised is no longer a commandment of God that needs to be kept. (Genesis 17:12-14) Which indicates that a change in what constitutes God's commandments has happened.
2. Seeing that failing to be circumcised cut one off from the "covenant" (Genesis 17:12-14), and was to be practiced "throughout your generations". This verse finds itself among many which testify to the fact that God's covenant with the Jewish nation has ceased and has been replaced by a covenant for all nations. (Colossians 2:14-17; Ephesians 2:14-16)
3. Even though we are no longer under the Law of Moses, "commandments" still exist which are essential for Christians to obey. (Matthew 7:21-23; John 14:15; Heb. 5:8-9)
4. Compare this verse with Galatians 5:6 'For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision means anything, but faith working through love.' The expression "faith working through love", is exactly the same as "keeping the commandments of God". Therefore, the "faith" that saves is an obedient faith. "Faith that works", is a "faith that obeys God's word". Hence, my faith isn't working until I obey what God has said.

30. Questions About Marriage
Instruction, Restrictions, Present Distress, liberties
Charts by Don McClain
Prepared April 17, 2011
Preached April 17, 2011
West 65th Street church of Christ
P.O. Box
Little Rock AR 72219
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