Meaning of 1 Corinthians 7:3

This verse from 1 Corinthians 7:3, "The husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband," speaks to the mutual and reciprocal obligations inherent within the covenant of marriage. Paul is addressing the Corinthian church, which, like many ancient societies, had varying views on sexuality and marriage, sometimes influenced by philosophical ideas that devalued the physical or promoted asceticism. In this context, Paul is not introducing a novel concept but reinforcing the foundational understanding of marital commitment as one that includes the full spectrum of conjugal intimacy. This "duty" or "debt" (opheilēn) is not presented as a grudging obligation but as a natural and righteous expression of love and commitment, essential for the well-being and stability of the marital union.

Context and Background

The Corinthian church was a diverse community grappling with various ethical and practical issues, many of which stemmed from their pagan cultural background and the influence of different philosophical schools. Some individuals within Corinth may have been advocating for or practicing celibacy, even within marriage, perhaps due to a misunderstanding of spiritual maturity or a desire to avoid perceived defilement. Paul, in this chapter, addresses several questions submitted by the Corinthians, including concerns about marriage and singleness. His response in 1 Corinthians 7 is a pastoral effort to provide practical guidance that honors God and promotes healthy relationships, particularly within the context of Christian fellowship. He affirms the goodness of marriage while also acknowledging the validity of singleness for certain individuals and purposes.

Key Themes and Messages

The central theme is mutual obligation and responsibility within marriage. This is not a one-sided command but a principle of reciprocity. Both husband and wife are equally bound to provide for each other's sexual and emotional needs within the marital relationship. The term "debt" (opheilēn) implies a legitimate claim that each spouse has upon the other, a claim that is to be met willingly and lovingly. This fulfillment is crucial for marital intimacy and fidelity, serving as a protective measure against temptation and sexual immorality, as Paul elaborates in the subsequent verses. It underscores the idea that marriage is a partnership where both individuals contribute to the other's well-being and spiritual life.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse highlights that sexual intimacy within marriage is not merely a biological act but a sacred covenantal expression of love and union. It is a gift from God that, when properly stewarded, can strengthen the bond between husband and wife and reflect the relationship between Christ and the Church. The willingness to fulfill this "duty" demonstrates humility, selflessness, and a commitment to the other person's holistic well-being. It calls Christians to approach their marital intimacy with intentionality, respect, and a desire to please both their spouse and God.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This principle of mutual marital duty is deeply rooted in the creation narrative and the foundational understanding of marriage as established by God. In Genesis 2:24, it is stated, "Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and they shall become one flesh." This "one flesh" union encompasses all aspects of life, including physical intimacy. The Song of Songs, a book dedicated to celebrating marital love and desire, further illustrates the beauty and importance of sexual expression within marriage. Later, in the New Testament, Ephesians 5:22-33 uses the Christ-Church relationship as a model for husband-wife dynamics, emphasizing sacrificial love and mutual submission, which implicitly includes the fulfillment of marital responsibilities.

Analogies

One helpful analogy is that of two complementary pieces of a puzzle. Each piece has a unique shape and purpose, and only when they are brought together in the correct way do they form a complete and beautiful picture. Similarly, husband and wife, each with their unique needs and desires, are called to fit together in marital intimacy, creating a union that is stronger and more complete because of their mutual fulfillment. Another analogy could be that of a garden. Just as a gardener must water, tend, and nurture each plant to ensure its health and fruitfulness, spouses are called to actively nurture their intimacy, ensuring that the "garden" of their marriage is vibrant and flourishing through mutual care and attention.

Relation to Other Verses

This verse is intrinsically linked to other passages concerning marriage and sexuality.

• 1 Corinthians 7:4: "The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband does. Likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife does." This verse directly elaborates on the concept of mutual ownership and responsibility introduced in verse 3.
• Hebrews 13:4: "Let marriage be held in honor among all, and let the marriage bed be undefiled, for God will judge the sexually immoral and adulterous." This emphasizes the sanctity of marriage and the importance of sexual fidelity within it.
• 1 Corinthians 6:18-20: "Flee from sexual immorality. Every other sin a person commits is outside the body, but the sexually immoral person sins against his own body. Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body." While this passage warns against sexual immorality outside of marriage, it also implicitly underscores the proper and godly context for sexual expression, which is within the marital covenant.
• Ephesians 5:28-31: "In the same way husbands should love their wives as their own bodies. He who loves his wife loves himself. For no one has ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as Christ does the church... 'Therefore a man shall leave his father and mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.'" This passage highlights the depth of love and care spouses should have for one another, which naturally includes their physical union.