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• Robinson, Donald William Bradley (1922-2018)

• Moore Theological College

• 1 Corinthians 7:1. Paul addresses questions from the Corinthian church concerning singleness and marriage. He discusses matters that carry no direct moral imperative and therefore offers his Spirit-led judgment rather than a command. Paul carefully distinguishes between divine command and personal opinion. The precise background of the Corinthian situation remains uncertain. Robinson suggests that interaction with Old Testament Scriptures and Orthodox Jewish thought may have led the Corinthians to question the necessity and value of marriage. According to Paul, both singleness and marriage are acceptable for the believer. Within marriage, husbands and wives are reminded of their mutual obligations. The insistence on marriage as compulsory, or conversely, the promotion of asceticism, both reflect pagan influences rather than biblical teaching. Christians are called to recognise a balanced view of marriage and singleness, resisting societal pressures that exalt marriage as the only desirable state. In Paul’s judgment, remaining unmarried was preferable in light of the Corinthians’ particular circumstances and opportunities for ministry. Yet he makes it clear that this is not a command, and each believer must decide for themselves. For the married, obligations within the relationship cannot be set aside. Pious excuses must not be used to neglect relational responsibilities. The sexual relationship is reserved for one’s spouse within marriage, and all self-centred expressions of sexuality stand contrary to God’s design in creation.

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• Moore Theological College

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• https://archives.moore.edu.au/documents/detail/227323 

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