What does "the present form of this world is passing away" mean? The Context of 1 Corinthians 7:31 “those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.” • Paul is addressing practical matters—marriage, singleness, material concerns—urging believers to keep an eternal perspective in every circumstance (1 Corinthians 7:29-35). • His statement about the “present form” (Greek: schema) sums up why Christians should hold earthly matters loosely. Defining “the present form of this world” • The visible, temporary order of society, culture, possessions, and even earthly relationships. • Everything structured around sin-stained human systems: economies, governments, fashions, and the physical universe itself (Romans 8:20-22). • Not creation’s essence—God called creation “very good”—but its current fallen arrangement. Why It Is “Passing Away” • Christ’s resurrection inaugurated the last days; His return will consummate them (Hebrews 1:2). • God has decreed a complete renewal: “the elements will be dissolved with fire, and the earth and its works will be laid bare” (2 Peter 3:10). • A new heaven and a new earth are promised where righteousness dwells (Revelation 21:1). • Therefore, the present order is already on a countdown toward transformation. Supporting Scriptures • 1 John 2:17 — “The world is passing away, and its desires; but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” • Hebrews 12:27 — “The removal of what can be shaken… so that the unshakable may remain.” • Romans 12:2 — “Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed…” • Matthew 6:19-21 — “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up treasures in heaven.” Implications for Daily Living Hold Everything Lightly • Possessions: steward them but refuse to be owned by them. • Relationships: love deeply yet remember ultimate allegiance belongs to Christ (Luke 14:26-27). • Plans: make them, but submit them to God’s sovereign, unfolding purposes (James 4:13-15). Prioritize Eternal Investments • Gospel witness and discipleship bear fruit that survives judgment (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). • Acts of love and generosity accumulate “treasure in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Holiness prepares us for the coming kingdom (2 Peter 3:11-12). Live Expectantly • Watch for His appearing—“the night is nearly over; the day has drawn near” (Romans 13:12). • Encourage one another with the hope of resurrection and renewal (1 Thessalonians 4:16-18). Encouragement and Hope The passing away of the present form is not loss for the believer but gain: the fading of what is temporary and flawed, making room for the eternal kingdom of Christ. “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58). |
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