What does 1 Corinthians 7:33 mean?

But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife. 1 Corinthians 7:33

Explanation

This verse from the First Epistle to the Corinthians, written by the Apostle Paul, addresses the concerns and responsibilities associated with marriage. Literally, Paul is saying that a married man is concerned with worldly things, which in this context refers to the everyday affairs of life, particularly those that are necessary to please his wife. Beyond the surface meaning, this statement can be understood within the framework of Paul’s broader discussion on marital status and Christian devotion. Paul here suggests that the married man’s attention is divided due to his obligations to his spouse, which may potentially detract from his undivided devotion to the Lord. The deeper implication is that single believers may have a greater capacity to focus on service to God without the same level of concern for familial and spousal duties.

Historical Context

1 Corinthians 7:33 was written by Paul in the mid-first century, during a time when the early Christian community was navigating how to live out their new-found faith within the existing social structures. Marriage was a key part of Greco-Roman society, and Paul addressed it to help the Corinthians understand how to balance their duties as spouses with their commitments as followers of Christ. It is important to note that during this time, there was also a belief among some Christians that the end of the world was imminent, which may have influenced Paul’s teachings about the married and unmarried state.

Theological Insights

From a theological perspective, this verse contributes to the understanding of Christian singleness and marriage. It has been interpreted in various ways by theologians:

• Some see it as a commendation of celibacy for the sake of undistracted service to God.
• Others interpret it as a realistic acknowledgment that marriage involves worldly concerns, but does not necessarily mean that married people are less devoted to God.
• Within Christian tradition, the Catholic Church has used verses like this to support the practice of clerical celibacy.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, 1 Corinthians 7:33 can serve as a reminder for married individuals to maintain a balance between their marital responsibilities and their personal spiritual growth. It encourages married couples to be mindful of not letting their relationship distract from their relationship with God. Additionally, it can validate the choice of singleness for those who feel called to devote themselves more fully to spiritual pursuits without the additional concerns of a spouse.

Cross-References

• Matthew 19:12 – “For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.”
• 1 Corinthians 7:34 – “There is a difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.”
• 1 Corinthians 7:7 – “For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.”

Language Study

In the original Greek the phrase “careth for the things that are of the world” uses the word “μεριμνᾷ” (merimnai), meaning ‘to be anxious or concerned about.’ The word for “please” is “ἀρέσκειν” (areskein), which conveys the idea of making someone else agreeable or satisfied. This language highlights the emotional and mental energy devoted to these concerns.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In the broader ancient world, marriage was considered a duty and a societal norm. This theme is common across various cultures and religions. For example, in Judaism, marriage and procreation are valued as part of God’s creation. Comparing Paul’s perspective on marriage with that of other ancient traditions, we can see a unique Christian consideration for celibacy or singleness as a viable option for a dedicated religious life, which was not commonly promoted in other religious or cultural contexts.

Scientific Perspectives

From a modern psychological and sociological perspective, balancing personal, marital, and professional responsibilities is known to cause stress and affect wellbeing. While Paul’s advice is theological, it inadvertently touches upon this understanding that divided attention can have practical consequences on an individual’s mental health and his ability to devote himself fully to different aspects of life, including spirituality.

Commentaries

Experts on this verse from 1 Corinthians offer a range of insights:

• Some commentators suggest that Paul is not denigrating marriage but rather pointing out that its responsibilities can lead to a different focus in life.
• Other scholars opine that Paul may be giving practical advice in light of an anticipated eschatological crisis, hence his preference for singleness.
• Conservative theologians often view this passage as highlighting the sanctity and significance of marriage while also elevating singleness as a gift to be celebrated when it’s dedicated to God’s work.
• Feminist theologians sometimes critique Paul’s apparent binary categorization of marital roles and the implied burden on women to please their husbands.