The purpose of Scripture is to help followers to know God in all of his/her persons and to give guidance on how followers should live to please God.
A reflection by Bob Young for August 30, 2026.
In the Apostle Paul’s first letter to the Corinthians (I Corinthians 7:1-9), he addresses the extreme views of some early Christians that spiritual people should avoid sex entirely. He proposes pragmatic rules for the faithful to follow.
Paul expresses a personal preference for celibacy, viewing it as a condition that allows for a single, undivided focus on God. However, he recognizes that celibacy requires a specific spiritual gift that not everyone possesses. He acknowledges human sexual desires and positions marriage as a legitimate, holy outlet for them. If a single, unmarried, or widowed person struggles with self-control, it is far better for them to marry than to burn with passion. Likewise, husbands and wives should remain faithful to one another.
Paul also emphasizes reciprocity within the marriage, such that neither partner has exclusive authority over their own body; instead, physical intimacy is a shared obligation and a mutual gift. He discourages denial of intimacy to a spouse except by mutual agreement for a temporary period of prayer.
In summary, this passage teaches that both marriage and single celibacy are valid, God-given callings, and that physical intimacy within marriage is normal and essential for spiritual health.
—Bob Young
