“But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you.”
Introduction
This short verse from Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians gives pastoral clarity about marriage. Paul answers a question Christians in Corinth had raised: is marrying a sin? He affirms that marriage itself is not sinful, even for a virgin, while cautioning that marriage brings particular earthly difficulties. The verse balances moral freedom in Christ with a sober awareness of life’s practical challenges.
Historical-Cultural Context and Authorship
The letter to the Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul in the mid-first century (commonly dated around AD 53–55) to the Christian community in the city of Corinth, a bustling Greco-Roman port known for commerce, social mixing, and ethical confusion. The congregation had sent questions to Paul about marriage, singleness, worship, and conduct, and Paul responds with theological teaching and pastoral counsel. His aim is to guide them in living faithfully amid present pressures and the expectation of Christ’s return.
Explanation and Meaning of the Text
“But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned.” Paul is answering a practical question with a clear pastoral tone: choosing marriage is not a moral failure. In the flow of 1 Corinthians 7, Paul has been distinguishing between his personal preference (singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord) and what he commands. Here he makes a concession—marriage is legitimate and not condemned by God.
“Nevetheless such shall have trouble in the flesh” points to the realistic burdens that come with married life: bodily and domestic responsibilities, concerns over provision, sexual relations, in-law and family tensions, and the ordinary demands that can distract from spiritual pursuits. Paul uses the phrase to remind believers that marriage brings concrete, earthly struggles alongside its blessings.
“But I spare you.” Paul’s words reveal pastoral sensitivity. He could have expanded on the difficulties to dissuade them, but he refrains—he does not wish to impose unnecessary burden on those who are already following conscience and calling. The phrase suggests both restraint and compassion: Paul respects individual vocation and spares the Corinthians an argument that might be burdensome or divisive. Theologically, the verse affirms freedom in Christ and the importance of wise, prayerful decision-making rather than legalistic judgment.
Devotional
If you are married or considering marriage, take comfort: the apostle’s first word is not condemnation but permission and grace. Marriage is a good and God-honored vocation. At the same time, Paul’s honest warning about “trouble in the flesh” invites humility and preparation—seek prayerful counsel, cultivate patience, and rely on God’s grace for the everyday demands that marriage brings.
If you are single, hear Paul’s pastoral balance: singleness can be a gift for focused devotion, but marriage is an honorable and permitted path. Whatever your state, ask the Lord for wisdom to follow where he is leading, and show compassion to others whose callings differ from yours, knowing that Christ’s grace covers both the joys and the burdens of every faithful life.