Commitment is something we don't hear discussed very much today. We live in a society that views commitments and relationships as disposable, especially regarding marriage, divorce, and singleness. The views on being married, single, or divorced are as numerous today as they were in the city of Corinth during the time Paul was writing his letters to the Corinthian church. Paul's main focus in this week's study of 1 Corinthians 7:1-13 is essential to remember. We are to focus on keeping our commitments with the Lord regarding how we honor the relationships He has given us and situations in which He has placed us.
Apparently the Corinthian church was in turmoil because of the immorality of the culture around them resulting in such questions as, "Because sex is perverted, shouldn't we also abstain in marriage?" "If my spouse is unsaved, should I seek a divorce?" "Should unmarried people and widows remain unmarried?" Paul answered many of these questions by saying, "For now, stay put. Be content in the situation where God has placed you. If you're married, don't seek to be single. If you're single, don't seek to be married."
As you lead your group through this study, please consider those in your group who have faced or are facing difficult challenges in marriages, through divorce, or living as single persons. Guide the group with a strong measure of grace and discernment while sharing the Truth found in these Scriptures.
BACKGROUND HELPS - Consider using the following to help you prepare to teach:
VIDEO SUGGESTIONS - If you are unable to enlist a couple to share their testimony regarding marriage, consider using the following:
SUMMARY IN THE TEACHING HELPS - The following statements could help challenge your group.
- We should remain faithful to our commitments to the Lord regarding how we treat one another in a marriage relationship, how we live faithfully if single, and how to respond to the issue of divorce.
- Are you married? Seek to honor God with your marriage commitment by honoring your spouse. Seek to serve God in whatever situation, position in life, or surroundings that you and your spouse share. If your spouse is not a believer, pray that your life and faithfulness will lead him or her to faith in Jesus Christ.
- Are you single or single again? Seek to honor God with your singleness. Do not feel that you are less of a person, alone in a world of couples. Instead, see your singleness as a gift from God. Ask Him how He would have you serve Him with that gift. You may find opportunities available to you that might never have been possible if you were married.
