1 Corinthians 7:29
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 7:29
29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 7 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of truth, righteousness, love. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it establishes important theological principles that resonate throughout Scripture. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 7:29
29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;
Analysis
But this I say, brethren, the time is short—the phrase ho kairos synestalmenos estin (ὁ καιρὸς συνεσταλμένος ἐστίν, "the time is compressed/shortened") reflects eschatological urgency. Paul believed Christ's return was imminent (Romans 13:11-12; 1 Thessalonians 4:15). This reality should shape priorities. It remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none—hina kai hoi echontes gynaikas hōs mē echontes ōsin.
Paul is not advocating neglecting marriage but relativizing earthly attachments in light of eternity. The phrase hōs mē (ὡς μή, "as not") establishes a pattern continued in verses 30-31: hold earthly realities loosely because they are temporary. Believers with wives should not make marriage their ultimate concern; Christ's return and Kingdom priorities transcend marital status.
This teaching reflects Paul's eschatological perspective: present circumstances, including marriage, are provisional. While marriage is good and binding, it is not eternal (Matthew 22:30). Believers must maintain eternal perspective, not allowing even good things like marriage to become ultimate. This prepares for verses 32-35's discussion of undivided devotion.
Historical Context
Paul and early Christians expected Christ's return within their lifetimes (1 Thessalonians 4:17, "we who are alive and remain"). This eschatological expectation shaped practical decisions about marriage, work, and possessions. While Christ's delay has extended church history, the principle of holding earthly things loosely remains valid.
Reflection
- How does eschatological urgency—"the time is short"—affect how believers approach marriage and earthly commitments?
- What does it mean to have a wife "as though not having" without neglecting marital duties?
- How should Christians balance honoring marriage's goodness with maintaining eternal perspective?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: 1 Corinthians 7:31, 1 Peter 1:24, 4:7, 1 John 2:17