September 21, 2025 - The Gift of Intimacy | 1 Corinthians 7:1-6 - Baptist Bible Church, Sparta MI

The Gift of Intimacy – 1 Corinthians 7:1–6 Is intimacy in marriage merely physical—or is it a spiritual gift? In this sermon from 1 Corinthians 7:1–6, Paul addresses confusion in the Corinthian church around sexuality and marriage, reminding believers that intimacy is both a joy and a responsibility within God’s good design. Far from being taboo or shameful, intimacy is a gift to be freely and joyfully given between husband and wife, strengthening the covenant of marriage and defending against the enemy’s lies.Paul also offers a wise concession: temporary abstinence for prayer, reminding us that even good gifts must never replace our ultimate devotion to God.In this message, we'll see that:Intimacy is a God-given gift meant for joy and unity (1 Cor. 7:2–4; Prov. 5:18–19)Marriage calls both spouses to give, not withhold (Song 6:3; 1 Cor. 7:3–4)God’s good design defends against Satan’s deception (James 1:16–17)Temporary celibacy is for prayer, not manipulation (1 Cor. 7:5)Delighting in God’s gifts strengthens our resistance to sin (Ps. 16:11)