1 Corinthians 7:5
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1 Corinthians 7:5
5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 7 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of holiness, creation, prayer. 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 contributes to the biblical metanarrative of redemption. 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 7:5
5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
Analysis
Defraud ye not one the other—the verb apostereite (ἀποστερεῖτε, "deprive") indicates that withholding marital intimacy is a form of theft or fraud. Paul permits temporary abstinence only with consent for a time (ek symphōnou, ἐκ συμφώνου, "by mutual agreement") for dedicated prayer and fasting. The purpose is scholē (leisure/devotion) to spiritual disciplines.
The command come together again (epi to auto, ἐπὶ τὸ αὐτό) uses language of reunification, indicating that even temporary abstinence creates separation. Paul warns that prolonged deprivation opens the door for Satan tempt you to sexual sin through akrasia (ἀκρασία, "lack of self-control"). This is not fear-mongering but realistic pastoral care.
Paul's teaching honors both the spiritual value of focused prayer and the God-given legitimacy of sexual desire. The ascetic Corinthians likely advocated extended or permanent abstinence; Paul firmly restricts this practice, recognizing that most believers do not have the gift of celibacy (v. 7). Regular marital intimacy is not unspiritual but part of God's protective design.
Historical Context
Jewish tradition allowed temporary sexual abstinence for Torah study or religious preparation (Exodus 19:15). Some Corinthian believers may have extended this principle, viewing ongoing sexual relations as defiling. Paul corrects this by making mutual consent and brevity essential conditions for any abstinence.
Reflection
- Why does Paul consider unilateral or prolonged sexual abstinence in marriage a form of "defrauding"?
- How should couples balance seasons of focused spiritual discipline with their regular sexual relationship?
- What does this verse teach about Satan's strategy to exploit unmet sexual needs within marriage?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Exodus 19:15, Joel 2:16