DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
As we've studied 1 Corinthians 7, what has most encouraged or challenged you about Paul's teaching on marriage, singleness, and following Jesus?
What are some common misconceptions about marriage and singleness? What are married and single people tempted to believe about their own circumstances or the circumstances of others? How can married and single believers better honor, encourage, and learn from one another in the church?
Paul repeatedly encourages believers to remain faithful in their present circumstances. Where are you tempted to believe life would be better or following Jesus would be easier if your circumstances were different? How might that thinking affect your faithfulness today?
Paul reminds us that “the appointed time has grown very short” and “the present form of this world is passing away” (vs. 29–31). How should these realities change the way we view our relationships, possessions, joys, and sorrows? (See also Romans 13:11–14)
In verses 32–35, Paul acknowledges that marriage brings legitimate cares and responsibilities. How can even good responsibilities distract us from our devotion to Jesus? What does it look like to care for those responsibilities while keeping Christ first?
Paul allows freedom regarding marriage and singleness (vv. 36–38). Why is it important to distinguish between biblical commands and personal preferences? Where might we be tempted to impose our preferences on others?
Does a widow have to remarry to be complete, secure, or useful in the Kingdom of God? Should a widow feel guilty if they do remarry? What is the only stipulation Paul puts on a widow remarrying (cf. vs. 39)? Why is that so important?
Paul tells widows they are free to remarry, but “only in the Lord” (vv. 39–40). What does this teach us about the freedom we have in Christ and the boundaries he gives us? Why is marrying another believer so important?
Paul calls us to remain faithful where we are, live with undivided devotion to Jesus, and exercise our freedom wisely. Which of these challenges you most right now, and what would it look like to respond faithfully?
