What does 1 Corinthians 7:9 mean?

But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn. 1 Corinthians 7:9

Explanation

1 Corinthians 7:9, in the context of the King James Version (KJV), suggests that if individuals cannot exercise self-control in terms of their sexual desires, it is better for them to enter into marriage than to struggle with unfulfilled passion. The phrase “to burn” is often interpreted as burning with passion or desire. This verse addresses the human experience of sexual temptation and promotes marriage as a framework for sexual relations, endorsing it as a means of exercising sexual expression in a moral and socially recognized structure.

Historical Context

The book of 1 Corinthians is a letter written by the Apostle Paul to the Christian church in Corinth around A.D. 55. Corinth was a major city in ancient Greece known for its commerce and also its immorality, including sexual promiscuity associated with pagan temple worship. The epistle deals with various moral, social, and theological issues faced by the Corinthian believers. In chapter 7, Paul discusses marriage and celibacy, responding to concerns and questions from the Corinthians about these topics in light of their conversion to Christianity and the cultural climate they lived in.

Theological Insights

Theological viewpoints concerning this verse vary across Christian denominations. Traditionally, many Christian theologians have upheld that marriage is an honorable institution designed by God for companionship and procreation. Others highlight celibacy as a gift and calling for those able to live without marriage. This verse, therefore, is seen as a concession by Paul, acknowledging the challenge of celibacy for those without this specific gift. It offers a Biblical basis for marriage where mutual desire and the potential for lust are present, thus promoting sexual purity within the bond of marriage.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, this verse advises individuals who find it difficult to maintain celibacy to consider marriage as a legitimate and positive choice. It suggests that marriage can serve as a practical solution to address sexual desires in a way that aligns with Christian ethical standards. For modern-day believers, it underscores the importance of self-awareness with regard to sexual temptations and the role of marriage in providing a context for intimate relationships.

Cross-References

• 1 Corinthians 7:2: “Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.”
• 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;”
• Hebrews 13:4: “Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.”

Language Study

The phrase “to burn” in Greek is καῦσαι (kausai), which refers to burning literally or figuratively and in this context, is often interpreted as a metaphor for burning with sexual passion. The word “contain” (ἐγκρατεύεσθαι, enkrateuesthai) means to exercise self-control or to be temperate. These keywords help us to understand that Paul is referring to the challenge of maintaining self-control over sexual urges and the appropriateness of marriage as an avenue to fulfill those desires appropriately.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In many ancient cultures, including those surrounding Corinth, marriage and sexuality were often viewed through the lens of social status and religious practices. The Greco-Roman society had a more permissive attitude toward sexual behavior outside of marriage, especially among certain classes and in conjunction with pagan worship. In contrast, Judeo-Christian ethics emphasized the sanctity of marriage and sexual relations within its boundaries, which was countercultural to the prevailing norms.

Scientific Perspectives

Science discusses human sexuality through biological and psychological lenses, understanding sexual desires as a natural part of human existence. The drive towards sexual relations has evolutionary underpinnings related to reproduction and the survival of the species. Modern psychology also recognizes the complexity of human sexual desire and its integration within society’s moral and legal frameworks. This verse from the KJV intersects with these understandings as it addresses the management of sexual desires within the specific moral framework of Christian marriage.

Commentaries

Commentators on this verse offer varied insights. Some emphasize the importance of understanding Paul’s words as addressing a specific historical context, suggesting caution when applying the principle universally. Others focus on the pastoral wisdom in Paul’s advice, acknowledging the reality of human sexuality and the struggles that come with it. They often point out that marriage is presented as a positive option, not just a last resort for those unable to remain celibate. They also note Paul’s stress on the value of marriage to fulfill one’s desires in a righteous manner.