This chapter needs to be understood in the light of a particular crisis on immorality that was being experienced in Corinth at that time. There are though very important principles for all times.

One of the best ways to protect from sexual sin is for the married to work in order to have healthy and fulfilling marriages, including sexually (v1-5).

Paul is teaching that for some people marriages is God’s gift for them while for others singleness is God’s gift to them (v6-7). This should stop believers looking down on someone if they are single or married. God’s best for different people in life is different in different cases.

Paul encourages those who have become Christians to remain faithful to unbelieving spouses with the desire to win them for Christ (v12-16). The saved person has a sanctifying influence on their spouse and children.

What is key is being faithful to the Lord in whatever situation we find ourselves in (v17-24). Being faithful where you are at is more important than longing for change.

Paul speaks of how widows are free to remarry if they so desire (v25-40). What is crucial in any marriage is for a Christian to marry a Christian (v39).