Is I Corinthians 7:9 talking about unfulfilled desires?

Answer:

"Yet I wish that all men were even as I myself am. However, each man has his own gift from God, one in this manner, and another in that. But I say to the unmarried and to widows that it is good for them if they remain even as I. But if they do not have self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion" (I Corinthians 7:7-9).

In the Greek text, the last phrase is "for it is better to marry than to burn." Translators have added "with passion" to clarify what kind of burning Paul was discussing. The Greek word puroo means to set on fire or burn. Figuratively, it means to fan the flames of emotions, especially sexual desire. The context is that the lack of self-control would lead a man and woman to commit a sexual sin fueled by their desire for sex. In other words, Paul is not talking about unfulfilled desires but desires that have gotten out of control.

Paul recommended (not commanded) remaining single because Christians were facing persecutions that were about to get worse. "I think then that this is good in view of the present distress, that it is good for a man to remain as he is" (I Corinthians 7:26). I Corinthians 7:9 emphasizes that people should not become dogmatic about his recommendation. If someone fears that he will lose control because of his desire for sex, then they should go ahead and get married, even if it leads to a more difficult life.