What does 1 Corinthians 7:10 mean?

And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband: 1 Corinthians 7:10

Explanation

1 Corinthians 7:10 addresses the subject of marriage stability and the importance of maintaining the marital bond as intended by God. The apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthian Christian community, transfers a direct commandment from the Lord concerning the union between husband and wife. He emphasizes that a wife should not depart from her husband. On a literal level, this is a straightforward instruction against divorce or separation. On a deeper level, it suggests the sanctity and indissolubility of marriage as instituted by God.

Historical Context

This verse was written in a first-century Greco-Roman context, where marriage and divorce customs differed from Jewish and early Christian practices. In the Roman Empire, marriage and divorce were more flexible and could be initiated easily by either party. Paul is writing to a mixed community of Jews and Gentiles in Corinth, a cosmopolitan city known for its diverse and often morally permissive culture. He addresses the Christians there to guide them on how to live out their new faith amidst prevailing societal norms.

Theological Insights

There are various theological viewpoints on this verse. In a traditional Christian view, this verse upholds the idea that marriage is a sacred covenant reflecting Christ’s unbreakable bond with the Church. This has often been used to stress the lifelong commitment of marriage. However, some theologians argue for a more nuanced interpretation, suggesting that while God’s ideal is a lifelong marriage, the context and challenges of individual situations can be considered when addressing the breakdown of a marriage. There is also discussion about whether Paul is restating Jesus’ teaching or applying it to the specific situations faced by the Corinthian believers.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, the teachings of this verse can influence how individuals approach their marriages. It serves as guidance for married couples to work on their relationships, seek reconciliation in times of conflict, and uphold their commitments. It may also inspire pastoral care within church communities to support couples and address marital difficulties before they lead to separation or divorce.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:6: “Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.”
• Malachi 2:16: “For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.”
• Ephesians 5:22-23: “Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as unto the Lord. For the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church: and he is the saviour of the body.”

Language Study

The key phrase of interest in the original Greek text is “μὴ χωριζέσθω” (me chōrizesthō), which is a command meaning “let not separate” or “do not depart.” The words encompass both physical separation and legal divorce. It is in the present imperative form, which implies a continuing state of not separating, reflective of the ongoing nature of marriage.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient times, many cultures had their myths and religious practices surrounding marriage. For instance, in ancient Rome, the goddess Juno was associated with marriage and childbirth. In contrast, the Hebrew Bible emphasized the covenantal nature of marriage — a permanent and sacred bond. This Christian principle as expressed in 1 Corinthians 7:10, while influenced by Jewish thought, stands out for its emphasis on the mutual responsibilities of husband and wife and the indissoluble nature of the marital union.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives on marriage and divorce focus on psychological, sociological, and biological factors affecting relationships. Studies show that stable, long-term partnerships can have health benefits, while divorce and separation can have negative impacts on psychological well-being and societal stability. The verse’s emphasis on marital stability could be seen as aligned with findings that suggest consistent relationships contribute positively to individual and communal welfare.

Commentaries

Commentaries offer various interpretations of this verse. Some assert that Paul is reinforcing Jesus’ message on the sanctity of marriage. Others suggest that Paul is addressing the Corinthians’ queries about whether new believers should remain in existing marriages. Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the bond of marriage reflecting the unbreakable relationship between Christ and the Church. The Expositor’s Bible Commentary notes that while Paul urges against separation, he also recognizes the complexities of life in subsequent verses, allowing for exceptions in particular circumstances, highlighting his pastoral concern for the believers in Corinth.