Paul’s Advice to Parents of Marriageable Girls (7:25-40), Rev Dr John Kwasi Fosu

Introduction

This lesson focuses on Paul’s advice to the parents of marriageable girls. When Paul says, “No commandment of the Lord” in verse 25, it simply means that Jesus gave no teaching on this subject as He did about divorce (as noted in verse 10, where Paul refers to His teaching). Keep in mind that in those days parents arranged marriages for their children.  This is still practised in some parts of Central Asia. Paul presents several facts for these parents to consider. Paul then offered a good deal of advice.

        a.  It is a time of distress (verses 25-31)

Marriage is a serious matter and believers were facing difficult times. These testings were not to cause the married to divorce or the unmarried to be frightened out of marriage (verse 27).  But due consideration had to be given to the situation at hand. Living a dedicated godly life means sometimes forsaking even the good things of the world.

        b.  Marriage brings responsibilities (verses 32-35)

One reason why Paul remained unmarried was so that he might devote himself completely to the service of the Lord.  His calling was such that he did not want to force a wife and family to suffer because of the Lord’s demands on him. If these parents wanted their daughters to serve God, then they had to face the fact that marriage involves many cares and demands.

        c.  Each case is individual (verses 36-38)

It is next to impossible to lay down rules that fit each case when it comes to marriage. Paul warns them that they must be convinced in their own hearts and not merely follow the crowd or try to appear super-spiritual.

        d.  Do not be in a hurry, for marriage is for life (verses 39-40)

The marriage cannot be broken because of some whim or fancy. Too many people (including some believers) have the idea, “If our marriage doesn’t work out, we can always get a divorce.” Not so, says Paul! When you marry, be sure it is “in the Lord”—that is, be sure you marry a believer and that your mate is the one God has chosen for you.