How does 1 Corinthians 7:6 distinguish between command and personal advice from Paul? The Setting of 1 Corinthians 7 Paul is answering specific questions from the Corinthian believers about marriage, singleness, and sexual relations. After urging married couples not to deprive one another (vv. 3-5), he inserts a clarifying remark in verse 6. Reading the Key Verse “I say this as a concession, not as a command.” (1 Corinthians 7:6) What “Concession” Signifies • Concession (Greek, “συγγνώμη”) implies permission, allowance, or considerate advice. • Paul grants liberty to couples to abstain temporarily, but he is not laying down an absolute rule. • The allowance takes into account differing situations, temperaments, and seasons of prayer. What “Not as a Command” Clarifies • Command (Greek, “ἐπιταγή”) denotes an authoritative order binding on every believer. • By saying “not as a command,” Paul separates this guideline from the universal commands given directly by the Lord. Paul’s Pattern of Distinguishing Command from Counsel • Verse 10: “To the married I give this command—not I, but the Lord.” Here Paul relays Jesus’ direct teaching on divorce (cf. Matthew 19:6). • Verse 12: “To the rest I say this—I, not the Lord.” He offers Spirit-guided apostolic counsel where Jesus gave no recorded instruction. • 2 Corinthians 8:8: “I am not making a command, but testing the sincerity of your love.” Same distinction between compulsory law and voluntary response. Why Paul’s Counsel Still Carries Weight • Though not a direct “command,” the advice is still inspired Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). • The Spirit uses apostolic wisdom to safeguard believers from temptation (v. 5) and encourage devotion to prayer. • Observing the counsel demonstrates love for the brethren and personal self-control, both commanded elsewhere (Galatians 5:22-23; 1 Peter 4:7-8). Practical Takeaways • Marriage intimacy is the norm; temporary abstinence is permitted only by mutual agreement for focused prayer. • Believers are free to follow Paul’s concession but must not elevate it above the Lord’s explicit commands. • Understanding the difference between divine mandate and pastoral advice guards against legalism on the one hand and laxity on the other. Linked Passages for Deeper Reflection • Matthew 19:4-6 — Jesus’ direct command on marital unity. • 1 Thessalonians 4:2 — “You know the instructions we gave you by the authority of the Lord Jesus.” • 1 John 5:3 — Love for God is shown by keeping His commands, distinguishing them from optional practices. Living It Out Today • Hold fast to every clear command of the Lord without compromise. • Receive apostolic concessions as Spirit-given wisdom that offers flexibility without diluting obedience. • In marriage, communicate openly; pursue both intimacy and prayer, balancing liberty with responsibility. |
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