1 corinthians 7:6 - But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment.
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What does "1 corinthians 7:6" mean?
The verse "But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment" (1 Corinthians 7:6) is Paul clarifying his previous advice about marital intimacy and abstinence. Let's break it down:
"This I say": Paul is referring back to the previous verses where he advocated for married couples to engage in regular sexual relations to avoid temptation (verses 2-5). He encouraged couples to not abstain from sexual intimacy unless it was by mutual consent and for a limited time, focusing on prayer.
"By way of concession": "Concession" implies a permission or allowance granted, but not a requirement. In this context, Paul is suggesting that while he thinks it's a good idea for couples to have regular intimacy, he understands that there might be reasons why a couple might choose to abstain for a while. He is making an allowance for that possibility.
"Not of commandment": This is the key part. Paul is emphasizing that his advice about regular intimacy is not a divine law or a direct order from God. It's his opinion or recommendation, based on his understanding of the practical realities of marriage and the challenges of resisting sexual temptation. He's saying, "I'm not commanding this. You won't be sinning if you don't follow this."
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I strongly suggest married couples have regular sexual relations to avoid temptation and to meet each other's needs. However, I understand there might be times when you both agree to abstain. This is acceptable; it's not a sin. My earlier advice is a suggestion based on wisdom, not a direct commandment from God."
Why is this distinction important?
Avoidance of Legalism: Paul is careful to avoid imposing unnecessary burdens or creating legalistic rules. He wants people to understand that Christian life is about love and freedom in Christ, not strict adherence to a list of rules.
Recognizing Individual Circumstances: He acknowledges that every marriage is different, and couples should make decisions that are right for them, based on their own circumstances, mutual agreement, and spiritual understanding.
Emphasis on Mutual Consent: The entire passage stresses the importance of mutual agreement in matters of intimacy. Paul wants to prevent any coercion or manipulation within marriage.
In summary, 1 Corinthians 7:6 highlights the difference between Paul's wise counsel and a divine mandate. It gives couples the freedom to make choices about intimacy based on their own circumstances and mutual agreement, while still encouraging them to prioritize the needs of their spouse and avoid temptation.
1 corinthians 7:6 - But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment.
What does "1 corinthians 7:6" mean?
The verse "But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment" (1 Corinthians 7:6) is Paul clarifying his previous advice about marital intimacy and abstinence. Let's break it down:
"This I say": Paul is referring back to the previous verses where he advocated for married couples to engage in regular sexual relations to avoid temptation (verses 2-5). He encouraged couples to not abstain from sexual intimacy unless it was by mutual consent and for a limited time, focusing on prayer.
"By way of concession": "Concession" implies a permission or allowance granted, but not a requirement. In this context, Paul is suggesting that while he thinks it's a good idea for couples to have regular intimacy, he understands that there might be reasons why a couple might choose to abstain for a while. He is making an allowance for that possibility.
"Not of commandment": This is the key part. Paul is emphasizing that his advice about regular intimacy is not a divine law or a direct order from God. It's his opinion or recommendation, based on his understanding of the practical realities of marriage and the challenges of resisting sexual temptation. He's saying, "I'm not commanding this. You won't be sinning if you don't follow this."
In essence, Paul is saying:
"I strongly suggest married couples have regular sexual relations to avoid temptation and to meet each other's needs. However, I understand there might be times when you both agree to abstain. This is acceptable; it's not a sin. My earlier advice is a suggestion based on wisdom, not a direct commandment from God."
Why is this distinction important?
Avoidance of Legalism: Paul is careful to avoid imposing unnecessary burdens or creating legalistic rules. He wants people to understand that Christian life is about love and freedom in Christ, not strict adherence to a list of rules.
Recognizing Individual Circumstances: He acknowledges that every marriage is different, and couples should make decisions that are right for them, based on their own circumstances, mutual agreement, and spiritual understanding.
Emphasis on Mutual Consent: The entire passage stresses the importance of mutual agreement in matters of intimacy. Paul wants to prevent any coercion or manipulation within marriage.
In summary, 1 Corinthians 7:6 highlights the difference between Paul's wise counsel and a divine mandate. It gives couples the freedom to make choices about intimacy based on their own circumstances and mutual agreement, while still encouraging them to prioritize the needs of their spouse and avoid temptation.