But this I say, brethren, the time is short, so that from now on even those who have wives should be as though they had none, (30) those who weep as though they did not weep, those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, those who buy as though they did not possess, (31) and those who use this world as not misusing it. For the form of this world is passing away.
The letter to the Corinthians was written by the Apostle Paul This first letter was written to address problems in the Christian church established by Paul – and the verses we study today concern practical application of principles set down by him . Paul is NOT invoking his apostolic authority here and he clearly says this earlier in chapter 7.
The audience of 1 Corinthians is being told that they live in times of present distress and that “the time is short” – meaning that Christians have been told to expect suffering in this fleeting life by virtue of their Christian beliefs. When a Christian marries the impact of distress caused by suffering is even greater because of worry for family. Paul is basically saying that it is easier for a single person than a married Christian with a family to endure tribulation. Paul has made it clear that he is NOT advocating separation or divorce but is telling his readers to minimize distractions of earthly things and to focus on the eternal. There is a proper place for family and the family is not to be forbidden or forsaken. But, it is a temporal gift from God and nothing earthly should take precedence over God.
Paul is addressing weeping/suffering here also. He is telling the Corinthians that everything in this life is temporary and insignificant relative to eternal glory – he is saying the same principle applies to rejoicing. God has given us pleasure and it is not sinful in itself but can be abused. What is wrong is finding pleasure apart from God. Both suffering and pleasure are short lived. All we possess – material things, physical strength and beauty, power/authority – all are gifts from God and we are the stewards of such gifts. But the things of the world are not ours – they belong only to God.
Paul is challenging the Corinthians to consider staying single – not that this would make them more spiritual but perhaps would/could enhance their holiness. But staying single does not automatically please God. We can do anything and everything for the wrong reasons – such as staying single out of fear of commitment, for immoral reasons or selfishness. Our verses can also benefit those who marry. We are called to certain conditions in life but our primary goal is to be HOLY – not happy – as either single or married believers.