What does 1 Corinthians 7:2 mean?

Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband. 1 Corinthians 7:2

Explanation

1 Corinthians 7:2 addresses sexual morality and the institution of marriage in a direct manner, reflecting Apostle Paul’s concern for ethical behavior among Christians in Corinth. The verse suggests a practical solution to avoid sexual immorality, which is to engage in the commitment of marriage. Each man is advised to have his own wife and each woman her own husband, implying a one-to-one, heterosexual marital relationship. The deeper meaning here advocates for sexual relations to be exclusive and sanctified within the bounds of marriage, contrasting with the promiscuity that was common in Greco-Roman society at the time.

Historical Context

This verse was written in a time when the nascent Christian community was forming its identity and moral code within the broader, permissive Greco-Roman world. Corinth was a cosmopolitan city known for its wealth, diverse population, and moral laxity, including a widespread acceptance of sexual liberty and temple prostitution. Paul’s letters to the Corinthians are often addressing issues of morality and community cohesion, urging the followers of Christ to adhere to a different set of standards from those prevailing in their contemporary society.

Theological Insights

Theologically, 1 Corinthians 7:2 reflects different viewpoints:

• Traditional Christian Perspective: This verse is often cited to support the sanctity of marriage and the notion that sexual relations are to be enjoyed exclusively within that covenant.
• Critical Viewpoint: Some scholars might argue that Paul’s advice is context-specific and reflects his expectation of an imminent eschaton, the end of the world, which required an urgent ethical code.
• Contemporary Christian Ethics: Within modern Christian discussions on sexuality, this verse is engaged with in debates on premarital sex, monogamy, and the definition of marriage.

Practical Applications

In daily life, many Christians view this teaching as a support for the practice of abstinence before marriage and for faithfulness within marriage. It also influences the Christian understanding of the marriage relationship as a partnership where mutual needs, including sexual, are to be met within a loving and committed framework.

Cross-References

• Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”
• 1 Thessalonians 4:3-4: “For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication: That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;”
• Ephesians 5:31: “For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother, and shall be joined unto his wife, and they two shall be one flesh.”

Language Study

In the original Greek, key words such as “fornication” (πορνεία or porneia) encompass a range of sexual misbehaviors beyond just prostitution, suggesting any form of illicit sexual activity outside of the marriage. The Greek words for “man” (ἀνήρ or anēr) and “wife” (γυνή or gunē) reinforce a conventional marital relationship.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to other ancient myths and religious interpretations, the Judeo-Christian view of marriage as expressed in this verse contrasts with, for example, the Roman and Greek acceptance of extra-marital relationships for men. The emphasis on monogamy and sexual exclusivity in both Judaism and Christianity is notable compared to the broader acceptance of polygamy and concubinage in many other ancient cultures.

Scientific Perspectives

From a scientific perspective, the call for monogamous unions can be linked to an understanding of sexually transmitted infections and their prevention. While the biblical authors would not have had scientific knowledge of disease transmission, modern science affirms that a monogamous relationship where both partners are uninfected is a way to prevent the spread of STIs.

Commentaries

Among various Bible scholars and theologians:

• Matthew Henry’s Commentary emphasizes the purity and mutual affection necessary in a marriage, seeing Paul’s advice as a divine remedy to prevent immorality.
• John Gill’s Exposition of the Bible interprets this verse to affirm the institution of marriage as honourable and necessary for the prevention of common immorality at the time.
• The Expositor’s Bible Commentary suggests that Paul is laying out a Christian ethic that contrasts with the prevailing Greco-Roman culture, acknowledging human sexual desires and providing a framework for their fulfillment within marriage.