1 Cor. 7:1-5,32-35, Gentleness/Faithfulness vs Sexual Sins (4)

Before we consider “faithfulness” let us note illustrations from today’s passage to what it means to “yield one’s rights and expectations to God.”  In the marriage relationship gentleness/meekness is seen in the way both spouses look to the needs and interests of the other (1 Cor. 7:3-5).  The “marriage bed” is not focused on self.  Rather each sets aside their desires and is devoted to the other.

Further, look at how Paul talks about those who are unmarried.  Have they chosen to remain single because it frees them from the obligations to care for others?  No!  He who is unmarried cares for the things of the Lord – how he may please the Lord.  Thus, either way, married or single, we are called to this gentleness that looks after the interests of others. 

In my experiences with people, this is not the way they think.  The choice of marriage or singleness is based on which brings the most happiness or fulfillment to the one making the choice.  The questions ought to be: Is this a person I can bless?  Or, in staying single, will I be better able to use my life in the service of my Lord?  In Paul’s case, he had a right to have a wife (1 Cor. 9:5).  But he chose to serve the Lord without distraction.  That is not a weird choice.  It is the meekness of Christ in action.

To choose to be married, as Paul notes, is not a sin.  It is a good idea for most people; that seems obvious.  But the choice still needs to be in the meekness of Christ.  Meekness will be evident in the marriage by punctuality, courtesy, thoughtfulness and other choices that show consideration of others. 

This, and the previous post, have emphasized the need for gentleness in the male-female relationship.  However, gentleness is valuable in every relationship.  Considerate people make great employees, church members, and citizens.  I have seen this again and again in people that are close to me.  In the business world, to be considerate of people is invaluable, not just treating them as clients or prospects, but caring about their lives outside the business dealings.  I am thinking of a couple of examples of this, and I assure you, they are not “meek” because it increases sales.  They are Christians, who are walking in the Spirit, and are thus producing the fruit of the Spirit.