1 Corinthians 7:5
Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
1 Corinthians 7:5 (KJV)
Context
Paul writes to the Corinthian believers to address practical questions about marriage and sexual conduct. In 1 Corinthians 7, he teaches that spouses have mutual authority over each other’s bodies (1 Corinthians 7:4) and warns against sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 7:2). Verse 5 applies these principles directly to the marriage relationship.
Meaning
Paul’s command, “Defraud ye not one the other,” uses a strong Greek word that means to deprive or rob. He is instructing husbands and wives not to withhold sexual intimacy from each other, because doing so defrauds the spouse of what is rightfully theirs within the marriage covenant.
The exception clause, “except it be with consent for a time,” shows that any abstinence must be mutually agreed upon and temporary. It is not to be unilateral or prolonged. The purpose of such abstinence is spiritual: “that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer.” This indicates a voluntary season of focused devotion, not a means of punishment or manipulation.
Paul then commands, “and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.” The Greek word for “incontinency” (akrasia) refers to a lack of self-control. Prolonged abstinence can create vulnerability to sexual temptation, giving Satan an opportunity. Therefore, the couple should resume normal marital relations to guard against this danger.
Biblical connections
This verse builds on the principle that marriage is a safeguard against sexual immorality (1 Corinthians 7:2). It also reflects the broader biblical teaching that spouses have mutual obligations to each other (1 Corinthians 7:3-4).
Application
Communication: Discuss openly and honestly with your spouse about needs, desires, and expectations regarding physical intimacy in marriage.
Mutual agreement: If you sense a need for a temporary period of abstinence for spiritual purposes, seek agreement and understanding from your spouse, and keep it brief.
Balance: Maintain a healthy rhythm between physical intimacy and spiritual disciplines, ensuring that both are nurtured in your marriage.
Reflection
Paul’s instruction reveals God’s care for the marriage relationship. It affirms that sexual intimacy is a gift to be enjoyed within marriage, and it warns against allowing spiritual practices to become a cover for neglect or selfishness. The goal is mutual holiness and protection from temptation, not deprivation.
