For a number of weeks, we have been looking at sanctification, the process of becoming holy, or set aside for God. Sanctification includes: separation from sin, dedication to God, and filling by the Holy Spirit. On some level, we understand that holiness involves separation, but is our sense of separation biblical?
Which verses in 1 Cor 7:1-16 talk about aspects of separation? (Other words than “separation” may be used.)
Which verses talk about aspects of what seems to be the opposite of separation?
At church we tend to promote the idea that separation from all worldly influences is the godly way. However, under what circumstances is one counseled not to separate from the world? Under what circumstances is one counseled to join (or remain joined) in what might seem like a not-entirely-holy arrangement?
v12 sounds like Paul is giving a personal opinion. (How does that fit with how we think Scripture got written?) Can we dismiss what Paul says here about separation/non-separation because it’s Paul’s opinion, or are there good, biblical reasons to remain in not-entirely-holy arrangements and still feel like we are being holy (i.e. used by God)?
Based on what you think you have learned, now read 1 Cor. 7:17-24. Is Paul still only talking about marriage here, or is he trying to apply what he has already said to a more general rule for living?
What do you think Paul would say about how most Christians live separately from the world?
What have you learned from this study, and what will you do differently based on this study?
Read the rest of the chapter, 1 Cor. 7:25-40. How do these verses help your understanding of what you have read earlier?
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