7:29 7:29

1 Corinthians 7:30

7:31 7:31

Bible Versions

And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not;
And {G2532} they that weep {G2799}, as {G5613} though they wept {G2799} not {G3361}; and {G2532} they that rejoice {G5463}, as {G5613} though they rejoiced {G5463} not {G3361}; and {G2532} they that buy {G59}, as {G5613} though they possessed {G2722} not {G3361};
and those who are sad should live as if they weren’t, those who are happy as if they weren’t,
those who weep, as if they did not; those who are joyful, as if they were not; those who make a purchase, as if they had nothing;
and those that weep, as though they wept not; and those that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and those that buy, as though they possessed not;

1 Corinthians 7:30 is a powerful verse from Paul's first letter to the Corinthians, urging believers to live with a sense of detachment from the world's fleeting realities. It encourages a mindset where emotions and possessions, while real, do not define or consume the believer, because the ultimate reality is temporary.

Context

This verse is part of a broader discourse in 1 Corinthians 7 where Paul addresses various aspects of Christian life, including marriage, singleness, and general conduct, all viewed through the lens of "the time is short" (1 Corinthians 7:29) and the "present distress" (1 Corinthians 7:26). Paul is not advocating for emotional suppression or irresponsible living, but rather a profound reorientation of priorities. He wants believers to understand that while they live in the world, they are not to be utterly consumed by it, because its "fashion passeth away" (1 Corinthians 7:31).

Key Themes

  • Detachment from Worldly Circumstances: The core message is about maintaining a spiritual equilibrium regardless of life's ups and downs. Whether experiencing sorrow ("weep") or joy ("rejoice"), or engaging in commerce ("buy"), believers are to hold these experiences lightly, understanding their temporary nature. This isn't indifference, but rather an inner freedom from being defined by external events.
  • Urgency and Eternal Perspective: Paul's counsel is rooted in the conviction that the present world order is temporary. This perspective calls for a life lived with eternal values in mind, rather than being engrossed in temporary gains or losses. It encourages a focus on heavenly things.
  • Stewardship, Not Possession: The phrase "as though they possessed not" highlights a principle of stewardship. Believers may acquire things, but they should view themselves as temporary managers, not ultimate owners. This encourages generosity and freedom from materialism.

Linguistic Insights

The repeated phrase "as though they... not" (Greek: hōs mē) is crucial. It doesn't mean to pretend or deny reality, but to act with a mindset that is not utterly bound or defined by that reality. For example, "weep as though they wept not" means to allow grief but not to be swallowed by it, retaining hope. Similarly, "rejoice as though they rejoiced not" suggests enjoying blessings without becoming complacent or overly attached to them. This attitude prepares believers for the transient nature of all earthly things, as the "fashion" (Greek: schēma), or outward appearance, of this world is passing away.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 7:30 offers profound guidance on navigating life's complexities:

  • Emotional Resilience: It teaches us to experience emotions genuinely—to grieve when there is loss and celebrate when there is joy—but to do so with an underlying peace that comes from knowing our ultimate hope is in Christ, not in our circumstances. This echoes the sentiment of Christ's promise of peace amidst tribulation.
  • Financial Prudence and Generosity: When it comes to possessions, the verse challenges us to avoid materialism. We are to use our resources wisely, but always with the understanding that they are God's, and we are merely stewards. This encourages generosity and freedom from the anxiety of accumulation. Jesus' teaching on laying up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-21) resonates strongly with this principle.
  • Kingdom Priority: Ultimately, this verse calls us to live with an eternal perspective, ensuring that our primary allegiance and focus remain on God's kingdom and His will, rather than being consumed by the temporary attractions or tribulations of this world.
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.

  • Luke 6:25

    Woe unto you that are full! for ye shall hunger. Woe unto you that laugh now! for ye shall mourn and weep.

  • Psalms 126:5

    They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.

  • Psalms 126:6

    He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves [with him].

  • Luke 6:21

    Blessed [are ye] that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed [are ye] that weep now: for ye shall laugh.

  • Ecclesiastes 3:4

    A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

  • John 16:22

    And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you.

  • Psalms 30:5

    For his anger [endureth but] a moment; in his favour [is] life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy [cometh] in the morning.
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