1 Corinthians 7:2-5 KJV: The Importance of Marital Intimacy
In 1 Corinthians 7:2-5, the apostle Paul addresses the importance of marital intimacy in the life of a Christian couple. This passage serves as a guidance for husbands and wives to understand their roles and responsibilities towards each other, particularly in their physical relationship.
The Command to Fulfill Marital Duties
2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
In this verse, Paul emphasizes the importance of marital union as a means to avoid fornication. The Greek word "porneia" used here encompasses all forms of sexual immorality, including adultery and premarital sex. By having their own spouses, husbands and wives can satisfy their natural desires in a way that honors God.
The Reciprocal Rights of Spouses
3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
In this verse, Paul establishes the reciprocal rights of spouses in their physical relationship. The phrase "due benevolence" (Gk. "opheile" ) implies a sense of duty and responsibility towards one another. Thismutual obligation is rooted in the concept of "one flesh" (Gen. 2:24), where the union of husband and wife is a reflection of Christ's relationship with the Church.
The Principle of Mutual Submission
4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
This verse highlights the principle of mutual submission in marriage. While the wife has no authority over her own body, and the husband has no authority over his own body, they both have a shared authority over each other's bodies. This mutual submission is rooted in the concept of "one flesh" and reflects the sacrificial love of Christ, who gave Himself up for the Church.
Avoiding Deprivation and Temptation
5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
In this final verse, Paul cautions against depriving one another of physical intimacy, except by mutual consent, and for a limited period, so as to devote themselves to prayer and fasting. This temporary separation is to avoid tempting Satan, who seeks to exploit any weakness in the marriage. By maintaining a healthy and fulfilling physical relationship, husbands and wives can strengthen their bond and resist the temptation to sin.
Conclusion
In 1 Corinthians 7:2-5, Paul provides a clear guidance on the importance of marital intimacy in the life of a Christian couple. By fulfilling their marital duties, spouses can maintain a healthy and fulfilling relationship that honors God and resists the temptation of sin.
