What does 1 Corinthians 7:11 mean?

But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife. 1 Corinthians 7:11

Explanation

1 Corinthians 7:11 is a specific directive from the Apostle Paul addressing the issue of separation or divorce among Christian couples. The literal interpretation of the verse advises that if a woman separates from her husband, she should either remain unmarried or seek reconciliation with her husband. It also commands that a husband should not divorce his wife. The deeper meaning suggests the importance of the marital bond and encourages the resolution of conflicts within the marriage, rather than pursuing divorce, which aligns with the Biblical principle of the sanctity and permanence of marriage.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul around AD 55. At the time, Paul was addressing issues that arose in the Christian church at Corinth. Corinth was a cosmopolitan city with diverse customs and practices, many of which conflicted with Christian teachings. Divorce was not uncommon in the Greco-Roman world, and Paul’s teachings sought to offer guidance on how Christians should differ from the prevailing cultural norms, emphasizing the importance of maintaining marital commitments.

Theological Insights

The verse offers several theological insights. From a conservative Christian perspective, it can be seen as an affirmation of the indissolubility of marriage. Reconciliation is presented as the preferred remedy for marital strife. Conversely, some liberal theologians argue that the verse provides for separation under specific circumstances while still valuing the marriage covenant. The verse is silent about the reasons for separation, allowing for some interpretative flexibility, but it shows Paul’s pastoral concern for maintaining the integrity of marriage.

Practical Applications

1 Corinthians 7:11 directs Christians to handle marital difficulties with a strong bias toward preserving the marriage. It suggests that after separation, individuals should consider a period of reflection and possible reconciliation before moving toward divorce or remarriage. In practical terms, this could mean seeking counseling or mediation to resolve differences. Christians might also interpret the verse as encouragement to work on their relationship and remain faithful to their vows during challenging times.

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.”
• Matthew 5:32: “But I say unto you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery: and whosoever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.”

Language Study

The key words in the original Greek text of this verse are:

• Depart (Greek: χωρισθῇ – choristhē): This term can mean to separate or to depart from. It refers to a physical separation or a distancing within the marriage relationship.
• Unmarried (Greek: ἀγάμος – agamos): This means unmarried, emphasizing the status of not being in a marital union.
• Reconciled (Greek: καταλλαγῇ – katallagē): This term implies restoration or return to favor, representing the act of re-establishing the marital relationship.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In ancient Greek and Roman culture, marriage and divorce were more fluid concepts than in Jewish and Christian traditions. In Judaism, the law permitted divorce under certain conditions, as seen in Deuteronomy 24:1. Christianity’s view of marriage as a sacred and lifelong commitment challenged these broader cultural norms, emphasizing the permanence of the marital bond and the idea of two becoming one flesh.

Scientific Perspectives

Modern psychological studies on marriage and divorce support the importance of reconciliation efforts and the impact of divorce on individuals and families. Research often highlights the potentially harmful effects of divorce on emotional well-being, suggesting that efforts to maintain or repair the relationship, as proposed in 1 Corinthians 7:11, can be beneficial. However, it is also noted that in cases of abuse or severe dysfunction, separation might be necessary for the safety and health of individuals.

Commentaries

Commentators offer various interpretations of 1 Corinthians 7:11. Some, like Matthew Henry, comment on the apostle Paul’s exceptionless rule on the indissolubility of marriage, where reconciliation is always sought. Others, such as John Calvin, acknowledge that while separation may occur, the bond of marriage remains unless lawful divorce occurs. Modern commentators often focus on the pastoral implications of the verse, considering how to apply the guidance within the context of contemporary issues in marriage and divorce.