1 Corinthians 7:1-7 Now concerning the things whereof you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.… In dealing with these verses, it should be noticed: 1. That, concerning such matters of practical detail, St. Paul gives his advice, he does not lay down authoritative commands. 2. The apostle's mission concerned principles, not details, which are properly regarded as well within the control of cultured Christian thought and judgment. Inspiration is wisely limited to subjects which, for any reason, are out of ordinary human reach. None of us need. precise authoritative guidance of the common incidents and relations of life. We can ourselves sufficiently apply Christian principles. 3. Principles are better left without minute applications, as they can then be variously adapted to the differing conditions of society in each age. 4. St. Paul, when induced to give advice, takes care to bring out and impress the related principle; and, if possible, he presents his own example for imitation. The principles with which he deals in these verses concern: (1) The subordinate position of woman. On this matter details would be very unadvisable, as will be fully seen if we contrast the Eastern and Western, the ancient and modern, sentiments about the place and work of woman. (2) The mastery of bodily passion in the power of the sanctified will. This is enough, and we can make all necessary applications. "Each one of you should know how to possess the vessel [of his body] in sanctification and honour." (3) The duty of using for the service of others, and in no way misusing or abusing, any form of capacity with which we may be endowed (ver. 7). - R.T. Parallel Verses KJV: Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.WEB: Now concerning the things about which you wrote to me: it is good for a man not to touch a woman. |
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