The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum Paul in 1 Corinthians 7

Is there a contradiction here. Paul is saying it is best for us not to get married, but in Genesis God gives Adam a helpmate in Eve. Is marriage a hindrance in our relationship with God? Paul at least gives the impression that it is in our service to God. All of this may be light of Paul's saying that Jesus' return will be soon.

John,

Actually, Paul did not write that is "best" to not marry. The word kalos can also mean, "better" or "okay, acceptable". Thus, what he is saying is, given the current state of affairs, if you (men, women and widows) are presently unmarried, it is fine if you remain so. There is no sin in not marrying. There are some who God has given no desire to join with another in marriage and IF this is so with you, then remain unmarried.

There is no contradiction here. Paul exalts marriage (cf. Eph 5) and nowhere does he deprecate this sacred union between a man and a woman. But he also knew that not everyone had a desire to enter into marriage. With this one exception in verse 8, Paul encourages men (and women) to marry, especially if it would mean being tempted to commit fornication (sexual relations outside of marriage). In short, Paul is addressing those who are in a 'special' category of disposition concerning the desire to enter into marriage.

Hope this helps.

Robert,

Actually, I have to answer this with a "yes" and a "no".

1. Yes: The Lord God's determinate counsel and providence in bringing to pass His will is sure. (Isa 46:9,10; Job 23:13,14)

2. No: We are responsible to do what is necessary according to the written revelation of God. And, that which God desires in His perfect will is most often accomplished through means. Thus, if a man or woman desires to be married, then they are responsible to use the means God has made available to that end. Thus, one desirous to find a mate should seek one out and even make it known that this is their desire. Sitting in a dark basement waiting for God's sovereign will to do all isn't an option (not that you are doing any such thing).

If a man or woman has no desire to be married, then this is acceptable as I have previously written according to my understanding of Scripture. But if one does desire to be married, then they must pursue that desire. (cf. 2Thess 3:10; One cannot expect food to miraculously descend from the sky and be set upon one's table.)

Good answer Pilgrim

What you wrote about "means" reminds me about straw man arguments that have been used against me on a number of occasions.
On one of those occasions (as I remember it) one particularly antagonistic person after I had recommended a great book on discernment to someone.
I was told in no uncertain terms that any book written by a Calvinist is surely useless. For why would they need to write on anything? If Calvinists are correct, then God is going to save those whom He chose and therefore the elect don't need to read anything.
As I learned, it was an exercise in futility to say anything in response to this person; for they had already made up their mind on the matter.

Tom

My pastor is currently teaching an excellent series in Sunday School on the family. So far, he's spent a number of weeks addressing us singles. I believe I have the gift of celibacy, as physically I can handle it (for it is better to marry than to burn). I also find that there is no lack of things to do for the Kingdom as a single person!