City Life Starter

By Ji Yun

In the previous chapters, Paul criticizes and rebukes those who continue to live in sin, especially in sexual immorality.  The reason for his confrontation with the Corinthian Christians can be many, but the most serious offense is that sexual sin is against the body or temple of the Holy Spirit.

“Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20)

In chapter 7, Paul begins to respond to the questions that were raised by the Corinthians church: the issue of marriage.  One of the issues Paul brings up is on celibacy.  In the intertestamental period, celibacy was admired and those who practiced were seen as spiritual, where Corinthians shared this view.  He would agree that it is good to be celibate, as he was but would continue to say that the marriage is also good and normal.  From Paul’s point of view, celibacy requires special calling, a gift from God that is not for everyone.

This chapter covers a variety of issues, from celibacy, marriage, living with unbelieving spouses, circumcision, unmarried and widowed.  Our contributors will cover each of these important topics and show how we can glorify God in our marriage or singleness in today’s world.