7:28 7:28

1 Corinthians 7:29

7:30 7:30

Bible Versions

But this I say, brethren, the time [is] short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;
But {G1161} this {G5124} I say {G5346}, brethren {G80}, the time {G2540} is short {G4958}: it remaineth {G2076}{G3063}, that {G2443} both {G2532} they that have {G2192} wives {G1135} be {G5600} as though {G5613} they had {G2192} none {G3361};
What I am saying, brothers, is that there is not much time left: from now on a man with a wife should live as if he had none —
What I am saying, brothers, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they had none;
But this I say, brethren, the time is shortened, that henceforth both those that have wives may be as though they had none;

In 1 Corinthians 7:29, the Apostle Paul provides a pivotal statement regarding the Christian's posture towards earthly life, particularly marriage, in light of an urgent spiritual reality. This verse is part of a larger discourse in 1 Corinthians Chapter 7 where Paul addresses various questions concerning marriage, singleness, and sexual ethics within the Corinthian church.

Context

The city of Corinth was a bustling, diverse, and often morally lax metropolitan center. The Corinthian believers faced challenges integrating their newfound faith with prevailing cultural norms, which sometimes included philosophical asceticism (denying physical pleasures) or libertinism (excessive indulgence). Paul’s advice throughout this chapter aims to guide them toward a lifestyle that honors God amidst these pressures. His counsel in verse 29 comes after discussing the advantages of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord (1 Corinthians 7:7) and before further elaborating on serving the Lord without distraction (1 Corinthians 7:32-35).

Key Themes

  • Eschatological Urgency: The phrase "the time is short" (Greek: ho kairos synestalmenos estin) conveys a strong sense of urgency. Kairos refers to an appointed or opportune time, and synestalmenos means "contracted" or "shortened." This suggests that the current age, with its earthly concerns and relationships, is temporary and rapidly drawing to its close, perhaps pointing to the imminent return of Christ or the brevity of life before eternity. This theme encourages believers to live with an eternal perspective, recognizing the transient nature of worldly affairs.
  • Detachment, Not Neglect: Paul's instruction "that both they that have wives be as though they had none" does not advocate for neglecting marital duties or abandoning one's spouse. Instead, it calls for a spiritual detachment from earthly relationships and possessions. It means not allowing these good gifts to become ultimate preoccupations that distract from one's primary devotion to God and His kingdom. The emphasis is on internal posture—holding earthly things loosely.
  • Prioritizing God's Kingdom: At its core, this verse is a call to radical prioritization. In light of the "short time," believers are urged to elevate spiritual pursuits, gospel work, and their relationship with God above all other concerns, including the comforts and demands of married life. This focus aligns with the broader biblical principle of seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 7:29 serves as a powerful reminder to live with an eternal mindset. It encourages us to:

  • Maintain Spiritual Focus: While honoring commitments and responsibilities (including marriage), our ultimate allegiance and deepest affections should be directed towards God.
  • Avoid Worldly Entanglement: Be in the world, but not of the world. This means not being consumed by earthly pursuits, material possessions, or even good relationships to the detriment of our spiritual walk and mission.
  • Live with Urgency: Recognize the brevity of life and the urgency of God's redemptive plan. This should motivate us to make the most of every opportunity for serving God and spreading the gospel, as seen in Ephesians 5:16.

The verse ultimately challenges believers to assess their priorities and ensure that their lives reflect a deep understanding that the present world is passing away, and what truly matters are eternal things.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 John 2:17

    And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.

  • Romans 13:11

    ¶ And that, knowing the time, that now [it is] high time to awake out of sleep: for now [is] our salvation nearer than when we believed.

  • Romans 13:12

    The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:31

    And they that use this world, as not abusing [it]: for the fashion of this world passeth away.

  • James 4:13

    Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:

  • James 4:16

    But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.

  • Hebrews 13:13

    Let us go forth therefore unto him without the camp, bearing his reproach.
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