Sunday 11.00am
Wednesday 7.00pm
(childcare provided)
Overview
In the United States alone, there are approximately 90 million unmarried or single adults. The majority (60%) of these adults have never been married. The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the church in Corinth, instructs single men and women to live satisfied in their devotion to God.
Time is Short
In I Corinthians 7:25-31, Paul reminds his readers that time is short and their focus should be on things of eternal significance. According to Jesus, marriage is a temporal relationship that won’t continue in the eternal state (see Matthew 22:23-30). In light of eternity approaching, single adults should think twice about marriage as their unmarried state gives them freedom to pursue the things of eternal value.
A Pie-Shaped Devotion
In I Corinthians 7:32-35, Paul reveals to his readers that our affections are limited. If a person is married, he or she must devote energy and affection in pleasing his or her spouse. However, the single adult is free to have an undivided devotion for Jesus (verse 35).
The Happier Path
Paul concludes this discussion by affirming those who are called to a single lifestyle in good conscience. In verses 36 through 40, he claims those who choose to be single over marriage will “do even better” (verse 38) and be “happier” (verse 40).
Applications
1) If you are married, do you regularly include your single brothers and sisters in Christ in your family’s social plans? Whom can you include in your family life this week?
2) As a single person, are you living a simple life of devotion to Jesus and serving others? Are you in any way abusing your freedom selfishly?
3) As a single person, are you living in self-control in your relationships with the opposite sex? Have you been sexually inappropriate towards anyone? Have you been emotionally inappropriate towards anyone?
4) For married and single adults, are you satisfied in Jesus? Are you seeking the satisfaction from others that only Jesus can provide?
Resources
Stop Dating the Church: Fall in Love with the People of God, by Joshua Harris
“Single in Christ: A Name Better than Sons and Daughters” by John Piper
other teachings