We enter upon what is generally believed to be the second section of this epistle. The opening words of the chapter tell us that Paul is now beginning to address those matters raised by the Corinthians in a letter to him.

The first matter raised is that of Christian marriage. It is likely, judging from the answer that gives that a conflict of opinions regarding the character and value of marriage had arisen between the Greek philosophy and the views of the Jewish community in the Corinthian church. The former is known to have considered marriage in a poor light, advocating that the wise man would avoid marriage and its tedious restrictions while the latter would have upheld the teaching of the Old Testament on the matter.

It might just be noted in passing that the Greek philosophers’ view of the superiority of celibacy forms the basis of Rome’s teaching. The error of the view is seen in the ungodliness that has followed its practice. Paul indicates that it is an ideal which those who can should pursue, verse 1. But he also clearly indicates that is not the general rule for all for this would lead to sin, verse 2. His opening observation is to counter those who claimed that it was God’s will for all to be married which, of course, it was not. Neither celibacy nor marriage is the general rule.

Both are in themselves honourable. Where there was the divine enablement to remain single with its freedom to serve the Lord in an unrestricted manner, then it was better, verse 7-8, 33-34. But this was not for all and marriage was also to be viewed as a gift of God, verse 7.

In the chapter, Paul deals with various aspects of the marriage union. We shall make some practical observations from what Paul says.

I. IN AN UNGODLY SOCIETY MARRIAGE WILL COME UNDER ATTACK

Here is a major discussion of every aspect of marriage. It was necessary since this fundamental unit of society was not rightly understood. God united the first two human beings in marriage for it was within that framework that the replenishing of the earth would take place. 

1. There is no clearer marker of the nation’s spiritual state than its attitude to marriage. Latest government statistics indicate just how marriage is under attack in our nation. Nearly 50% of all expectant mothers are unmarried. Marriages have fallen to under 300,000 per annum while divorces have risen to 165,000. Only the Netherlands and Sweden have worse figures.

2. Such a state is contrary to the wellbeing of the children and the adults involved. There is no commitment or stability in such a liaison. A sense of security and wellbeing cannot be present in such a relationship. It was formed without commitment and may be dissolved without obligation. Such is the common practice today. 

3. It is contrary to public morality. Verse 2. Where there is no marriage then any physical relationship is impure and immoral. What condemnation must rest upon any society such as ours where marriage has declined to almost a minority status?

II. CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE IS BASED UPON MUTUAL REGARD AND SELF-SACRIFICE

This chapter sets forth the ideal of the marriage relationship. 

1. There is to be a mutual benevolence. Verse 3. In all things and at all times bearing the other in mind. Gen 2:18., Ephesians 5:21-33, I Peter 3:1-7, verses 33-34. Matthew Henry—Woman was taken from man’s rib:— side - equal with him; near heart - love; under arm - protect. Not from his head to rule him nor his feet to be trample upon. These are the sentiments of the true Christian are were stated some 300 years ago and are still true.

2. There will be a mutual guarding of their spiritual life. Verse 5. It must be given priority yet with mutual agreement. The devil stands ready to exploit the spiritual differences that so often arise in the home.