Practical Implications of 1 Corinthians 7:1-16 for Christian Married Couples in the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer’s Church

Abstract

This mini-thesis aims to explore the marital issues addressed in 1 Corinthians 7:1-16 and apply the biblical teachings to the contemporary context of the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer's Church (EFGBC). The research identifies the key marital problems within the Corinthian church and examines how Paul's instructions can inform and guide Christian married couples and church leaders in the EFGBC. The study begins with an introduction that outlines the background, aims, objectives, limitations, and methodology. It then provides guidelines for interpreting Pauline epistles, emphasizing the importance of understanding the nature of epistles, the principle of single meaning, and the context of the passage. The context of 1 Corinthians is examined, including its authorship, date and place of writing, occasion, purpose, structure, and themes. The thesis delves into a detailed analysis of 1 Corinthians 7:1-16, focusing on the boundaries, literary analysis, and synthesis of the passage. It identifies the arguments Paul presents to the married couples, the unmarried and widows, and those in mixed marriages (believers married to unbelievers). The study highlights Paul's call for mutual sexual relations within marriage, the importance of staying married, and the prohibition of divorce except in cases of abandonment by an unbelieving spouse. Through interviews with selected married couples and church leaders in the EFGBC, the thesis assesses the practical significance of Paul's teachings for addressing contemporary marital challenges. The study concludes with a summary of findings and recommendations for church leaders and married couples, emphasizing the need for regular counseling, education on biblical marital principles, and support for couples facing marital issues. The thesis contributes to the understanding of marital relationships within the context of the Ethiopian Full Gospel Believer's Church and provides practical strategies for enhancing marital intimacy and stability based on biblical teachings.