What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 7:33? But Paul is making a contrast. Just a verse earlier he noted, “The unmarried man is concerned about the work of the Lord, how he can please the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:32). By opening with “But,” he shifts the focus: marriage introduces a different set of priorities. Jesus Himself acknowledged that some remain single “for the sake of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:12), yet most believers will marry. So Paul is not dismissing marriage; he is simply highlighting a change in practical focus. The married man Here’s the man who has entered a covenant instituted by God from the very beginning—“For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife” (Genesis 2:24). Marriage is honorable (Hebrews 13:4), compares to Christ and the church (Ephesians 5:31–32), and is God’s good gift (Proverbs 18:22). Still, with that gift comes stewardship: the husband now bears responsibility not only for himself but also for his spouse. is concerned The phrase signals ongoing attention. • This is not worry born of unbelief, but legitimate care—“If anyone does not provide for his own... he has denied the faith” (1 Timothy 5:8). • Paul uses the same word when he praises Timothy, who “will show genuine concern for your welfare” (Philippians 2:20). • God assigns these earthly duties; they are part of loving one’s neighbor, beginning at home. about the affairs of this world The expression points to everyday, earthly matters—food on the table, a roof overhead, safety, schooling, medical needs. None of these are sinful; they are simply temporal. • Solomon reminds us to “enjoy life with your wife” (Ecclesiastes 9:9), which takes time and resources. • Paul elsewhere urges believers to “work with your hands, so that you will lack nothing” (1 Thessalonians 4:11–12). • At the same time, he cautions, “Those who use the things of the world [should live] as if not engrossed in them” (1 Corinthians 7:31). Balance is the key. how he can please his wife A husband’s God-given aim is to bless his wife. • “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church” (Ephesians 5:25). • “Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them” (Colossians 3:19). • “Husbands, in the same way be considerate as you live with your wives” (1 Peter 3:7). This “pleasing” involves: – Providing materially (Proverbs 27:23–27) – Nurturing emotionally (Song of Songs 2:4) – Leading spiritually (Deuteronomy 6:6–7) When a man does these things, he models Christ’s servant leadership at home. summary 1 Corinthians 7:33 teaches that marriage adds an earthly layer of responsibility. A married believer remains devoted to Christ, yet his daily schedule now includes meeting his wife’s needs and managing household affairs. These concerns are honorable and God-ordained, but they inevitably divide attention that could otherwise be singularly devoted to ministry. Paul’s point is not to discourage marriage; it is to help each believer weigh God’s calling honestly, recognizing both the blessings and the practical obligations that come with the covenant of marriage. |
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