1 Corinthians 7:39 - Meaning and Application

The section closes with advice to widows. As long as her husband is alive, a wife is bound by the law to remain joined to him and to live with him. Marriage is for life, and only death can break that bond.

But if her husband has died, she is free to marry whom she chooses. God’s law does not limit a woman to only one marriage in her lifetime. This passage plainly shows that a second marriage is not sinful, because the widow would not be free to marry again if that were wrong. Still, Paul adds one limit, she must marry in the Lord.

When we choose close relationships or face changes in life, we should keep God in view. Marriages are likely to receive God’s blessing when they are made in the Lord, when people are guided by God’s fear and God’s commands, and when they trust his care in choosing a spouse. They should be able to look to God, sincerely ask for his guidance, and humbly hope for his blessing on what they do.

But, Paul says, she is happier if she remains as she is, that is, if she stays a widow, in his judgment. “And I think I have the Spirit of God” (1 Corinthians 7:40). At this time, and perhaps often, it will usually bring more peace and fewer distractions from God’s service for such a woman to remain unmarried. Paul also makes clear that this counsel comes by the Holy Spirit. In effect, he says, “Whatever false teachers may think of me, I know that I have the Spirit of God.”

This reminds us that a change in marriage status is a serious matter. It should not be made lightly, but only after careful thought and a close look at the circumstances. At the least, there should be strong reason to believe that the change will help, not hurt, our spiritual life.