Though a cursory reading of Paul’s teaching in 1 Corinthians 7 might seem to cast doubt on the plain declarations of Jesus, a careful study reveals the agreement between Paul and Jesus on this important subject. We must be careful, lest we as others, “twist” the apostles’ teaching “to their [our] own destruction, as they do also the rest of the Scriptures.”
God has determined the one exception to the rule of “one man, one woman, for a lifetime.” It is fornication. It is the sole exception, and God’s law must be respected.
The rule, simply stated, is this: One man, one woman, for a lifetime. When a man marries his wife, they become one. God joins the two, and no man has the right to separate them. They are bound for life.
The Christian race is not a “fun run.” We should not approach it as a hobby, something to do on a sunny day. Rather, it should be to us as competition is to the Olympic athlete. We must give ourselves to it totally, and deny all else that we may obtain the victory in Christ. (cf. 1 Corinthians 9:24-27)
