1 Corinthians 7:1

Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.

1 Corinthians 7:1 (KJV)

Context

This verse opens a new section in Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians. In the preceding chapters, Paul addressed divisions, immorality, and disputes within the church. Now he turns to specific questions the Corinthian believers had written to him about, particularly concerning marriage, sexual purity, and relationships. The phrase “Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me” signals that Paul is directly responding to their letter.

Meaning

The statement “It is good for a man not to touch a woman” uses the Greek word haptomai, which here serves as a euphemism for sexual relations. Many translations render it “to have sexual relations with a woman” or “to marry.” Paul is not declaring that all physical contact between men and women is wrong or sinful. Rather, he is affirming that abstaining from sexual intimacy can be good in certain circumstances, especially in light of the Corinthians’ concerns about sexual immorality.

Paul immediately qualifies this statement in the next verse: “Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband” (1 Corinthians 7:2). This shows that his words are not an absolute command but a recognition that singleness and celibacy can be good, while also acknowledging the reality of sexual temptation and the proper place of marriage.

Biblical connections

Paul’s statement should be understood within the cultural context of his time. In the first-century Greco-Roman world, various philosophical movements advocated strict celibacy and avoidance of physical contact with women. Paul might be referencing or engaging with these ideas, albeit in a nuanced way. The Corinthian culture was known for its promiscuity, and Paul’s instruction aimed to help believers maintain sexual purity amidst such influences.

Application

While Paul acknowledges the goodness of abstaining from physical contact, he goes on to address specific situations and circumstances where marriage is appropriate and honorable (1 Corinthians 7:2-5). He affirms the sanctity of marriage and recognizes the God-given desires within individuals. Paul provides guidance on marriage, singleness, divorce, and other related matters throughout the rest of 1 Corinthians 7.

It is crucial to interpret this verse in light of the whole biblical message. Isolating this verse from the rest of Scripture could lead to an imbalanced view of relationships and sexuality. The Bible affirms the goodness of marriage and the physical union between a husband and wife within the bounds of a covenantal relationship.

Reflection

This verse invites believers to consider their own calling and circumstances. Both marriage and singleness can be honorable before God, and each requires wisdom and self-control. Paul’s response to the Corinthians reminds us that the church is called to address real questions with grace and truth, always pointing to the goodness of God’s design for human relationships.