The Corinthians had sent Paul a list of questions, and marriage was at the top. Paul gives thoughtful, pastoral answers: marriage is the right place for sexual intimacy, and spouses shouldn't withhold themselves from one another. He addresses the unmarried and widowed, those wanting to leave a marriage, and those married to unbelievers who want out. His pastoral instinct throughout is toward peace — don't be looking for a reason to blow up your life. God's call is to peace, and God can work through the situation you're already in.
