Marriage & Divorce

1 Corinthians 7:6-16

Summary
This week we consider Paul’s pastoral teaching on singleness, marriage, and divorce. Scripture presents a high view of marriage as God’s gift that is created, sustained, and protected by him. Yet God’s Word also speaks with honesty about the painful realities of sin, calling believers to fight for their marriages and to proceed with great care in seasons of separation. Where divorce enters the story, the gospel offers truth, grace, and hope: God calls His people to peace, repentance, and faithful obedience, assuring us that nothing lies beyond the redeeming power of Christ.

Discussion Questions

• When you hear a sermon or Bible study on marriage or divorce, what reactions tend to surface (curiosity, discomfort, relief, tension)? Why do you think that is?
• In verses 6-9, Paul describes both singleness and marriage as a “gift.” What stands out to you about that language? How does it challenge common assumptions?
• In verses 10-11, what commands does Paul emphasize for married couples? Why do you think reconciliation is highlighted?
• In verses 12-16, how does Paul address marriages between a believer and an unbeliever? What encouragement or tension do you see here?
• In the sermon Pastor Billy described marriage as a covenant, not merely a contract. What is the difference? How does that shape expectations within marriage?
• Paul says God has "called you to peace" (v.15). What kind of peace is he talking about? How might this apply in difficult relational situations?
• Verse 14 speaks of the unbelieving spouse being "made holy." What does this mean? What does it not mean?
• Paul honors both singleness and marriage. How does the church sometimes unintentionally elevate one over the other? Have you experienced that personally?
• If you're married: What helps you actively "fight for" your marriage? Where do you need encouragement or growth?
• If you're single or widowed: What might it look like to embrace your present season as a gift from God? What challenges come with that perspective?
• How can our group/church better support those experiencing: Marital strain? Separation? Divorce? Loneliness?
• Shame often causes people to withdraw from Christian community. Why is isolation such a temptation in painful seasons? How can we gently pursue one another instead?

Quotes
“A dead thing can go with the stream, but only a living thing can go against it.”
― G.K. Chesterton, The Everlasting Man, p.164