1 Corinthians 7:25 (The apostle Paul wrote) Now concerning virgins, I have no command of the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy. 26 I think that, in view of the impending crisis, it is well for you to remain as you are. 27 Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife. 28 But if you marry, you do not sin, and if a virgin marries, she does not sin.
Apparently the apostle Paul had been asked to offer his guidance for people who were married or who were considering marriage. What should they do given that Jesus was coming soon? Two things interest me about this passage.
First, I appreciate Paul’s statement in v.25 “I have no command of the Lord, but I give my opinion as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy”. He made a distinction between direction he received from the Lord and his own opinion. They did not carry the same weight or authority in Paul’s mind.
Second, Paul was expecting Jesus to return any day – maybe even within the week. With such a short time frame to consider, getting married or not getting married doesn’t seem that big of a deal. I’m fairly certain Paul would be astounded to learn that, over 2,000 years after this letter was written, the church was still waiting for Jesus to come again.
Lastly, though 2,000 years seems like a long time to you and me – in the context of eternity 2,000 years will seems as a tick of the clock.
Lord Jesus we await your return. Save us from the troubles and concerns of this life and receive us into your eternal kingdom. Amen.