11/06/2026
English Esker Sunday Service - 31st May 2026
Title: Living as you have been called
Key Scripture: 1 Corinthians 7
Supporting Scripture: Ephesians 5:21-33; Philippians 1:27
Preacher: Deacon Samuel Teo
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From the previous two chapters, we learnt that s*xual immorality was one of the many issues that had been reported to Paul regarding the Corinthian church. Paul’s response was to pronounce his judgement on their misapplication of grace and to instruct the church to exercise discipline. All of this to safeguard the church and in hope that the unrepentant might turn from their sin, be it s*x outside of it’s wonderful God ordained purpose, greed, dishonesty or idolatry.
Following his firm pronouncement Paul begins to deal with some specific questions brought to him by the believers in Corinth. The first question (or set of questions) centres on s*x. We don’t know what exactly was asked but Paul’s teaching covers at least 11 scenarios set out in verses 1-16 and 25-40.
Paul’s pastoral wisdom, which is as much for our own leadership as for to congregation is this:
· S*x is a gift, it’s beautiful and in its holy context or marriage forms part of the picture of God’s love for the church. Withholding s*x should be done consensually and for specific, short-termed purpose.
· S*xual immorality is any s*xual thought or action outside of this right context.
· Remaining single is desirable but only if you are gifted to be content to never have s*x.
From s*x between couples who are married and in Christ to the various circumstances in which men and women were engaged or unmarried or single Paul provides pastoral wisdom. His wisdom (which is God’s Word) belies a more basic principle; “to lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him/her and to which God has called him/her” (1 Cor 7:17).
Paul sees that the same legalism that prevents people from receiving grace, can follow a believer into their new life. He raises key aspects of identity (and causes of pride) and declares that circumcision (cultural identity) or social status (identity based on finance, class or achievement), count for nothing now. As people who are reconciled to Christ, Paul reminds us that all these things are passing away, and that what truly counts is our living in whatever circumstances, lives that are worthy of the Gospel, that reflect joy in Christ and lives that point towards the one who saves.
