WALDEN – First Corinthians, chapter seven, contains a puzzling passage where Paul writes about marriage and virginity saying: “Because of the present crisis, I think that it is good for a man to remain as he is.” (1 Cor 7:26)
At first glance, the chapter focuses heavily on personal choices: marriage, virginity, singleness and devotion. Underneath that, Paul’s overriding emphasis is on how we live faithfully in the midst of a societal crisis.
Scholars have long debated what Paul meant by “the present crisis.” Some believe he was referring to a period of famine caused by grain shortages, which created widespread hardship. Others suggest Paul was anticipating Jesus’ imminent return, which gave his words a sense of urgency; why focus on marriage if the world was about to change forever? Another interpretation is that Paul was addressing the persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire, a situation that made marriage and family life more difficult and dangerous.
Whatever Paul meant by “the present crisis,” his advice was clear: focus on serving God and living a life of devotion rather than becoming overly concerned with earthly matters, including marriage and family.
Just as Paul addressed a time of uncertainty, many today feel we are facing a present crisis of our own: political instability, economic uncertainty and cultural shifts. Concerns over wealth inequality, leadership and the future of democratic values, weigh heavily on people’s minds.
This kind of uncertainty can be unsettling, especially when trust in institutions is weakening and the future feels unpredictable. Yet Paul’s message in 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 offers a powerful reminder for times like these: “What I mean, brothers and sisters, is that the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as if they do not; those who mourn, as if they did not; those who are happy, as if they were not; those who buy something, as if it were not theirs to keep; those who use the things of the world, as if not engrossed in them. For this world in its present form is passing away.”
Paul’s words remind us of an important truth: the world Is temporary.
No government, nation or political system lasts forever. While we are called to be responsible citizens, our ultimate hope should not rest in political outcomes.
Paul encourages believers to engage in life without becoming overly dependent on worldly structures. This echoes a modern piece of wisdom from the band 38 Special: “Hold on Loosely”. In other words, we should care about our responsibilities and society, but not cling so tightly to stability, finances or personal freedoms that we lose sight of a greater perspective.
One crucial clarification is that Paul is not advocating for irresponsibility or carelessness in personal relationships. In times of crisis, it’s easy to let stress and uncertainty excuse thoughtless words or neglectful actions, even toward those closest to us.
Paul’s point is not to disregard our commitments but to remind us that no earthly attachment should consume us more than our devotion to God. Rather than letting a crisis strain our relationships, we should be even more intentional in how we speak and act toward others.
So how should we respond? Remain engaged, but not overwhelmed. Vote, advocate and speak truth, but don’t let fear or anger consume you. Be strengthened by God and your faith community. Stay connected to others for encouragement and support. Stay hopeful, even in uncertainty. When things feel chaotic or corrupt, it’s easy to fall into frustration or despair. But Paul’s words remind us that hope isn’t tied to politics, the economy or a particular leader, it’s something deeper and more resilient.
History shows that people, communities and even nations can endure and overcome incredible challenges. The U.S. has faced deep crises before: wars, depressions, political corruption. Yet, people found ways to rebuild and move forward. If past generations could rise above turmoil, so can we.
No crisis lasts forever. Paul reminds us that “this world in its present form is passing away.” While this is often read spiritually, it’s also true politically and culturally; leaders change, movements rise and fall and systems evolve. The current crisis won’t last forever. New opportunities will emerge.
Major change often starts at a grassroots level. Instead of waiting for politicians to fix things, people can take action within their families, workplaces, churches and communities. A small group of committed individuals can shift culture in meaningful ways.
Paul’s message reminds us that no crisis: political, economic or personal, has the final word.
While challenges come and go, hope remains.
Jeff Pierpont
Jeff Pierpont is the interim minister at the Greensboro United Church of Christ while Ed Sunday-Winters is away on sabbatical.
