The Practice of Marital Sex: I Cor.7:1-5

Paul made it clear that the norm for a married couple is to practice regular sex. He counseled that sex should only be set aside “for a time, so that you may devote yourselves to prayer.” But this is only a temporary interruption -- the couple should “come together” again so that they won’t be tempted to commit sexual sin.

But what is regular? Paul’s council is that the decision is made by “mutual consent.” And obviously, such agreement can only happen when the couple is talking about sex -- a conversation that many of us find difficult. God intended us to be naked with our partners -- both literally and metaphorically -- we need to be stripped of our clothes and our defenses. We can bare ourselves by asking a few simple questions of each other:

What would satisfy you?
What would improve our sex life?
How can I meet your physical and emotional needs?

The discussion should take place in a context in which each is focused on the need’s of his partner: “the husband should fulfill his marital duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.” Though each has an opportunity to express his/her needs, the primary emphasis should be on what I can give, not on what I can get. Successful marriages always focus on responsibilities more than rights. God intended marriage to be a laboratory where we learn to serve rather than be served.

Next Sunday: December 4, 2005 - I Cor.7:10-40
We will spend our time trying to answer one primary question: Under what circumstances does God allow divorce? Within this we will also discuss the issue of remarriage. You might find it helpful to read Mt.5:31-32 & 19:1-12.


New Year's Eve Fellowship at the Schock's home. Kids and food welcome. 7:00-12:00 P.M.