Questioni scottanti sul matrimonio in 1 Cor 5-7

Abstract

The present study of a theological-biblical character treats of certain marital problems addressed by the Apostle Paul in 1 Corinthians 5-7. The article shows how Paul’s teaching, while focused on the particular socio-cultural and religious situation of Corinth, nevertheless gives scope for hermeneutical, theological and even pastoral considerations that are also relevant to present circumstances. On the hermeneutical side, this part of the Letter is a paradigmatic case which illustrates the historical and  progressive character of divine revelation in Holy Scripture. Being the Word of God in words that are human and hence essentially limited, the revelation attested in the Bible requires a correct interpretation in the Church, in the light of its fulfillment in Christ. As regards pastoral theology, the arguments adopted by Paul to counter the Corinthians’ misconceptions about sexuality, open the way to a rediscovery of the charism of both virgins and married people and of the salvific value of Christian marriage.