1 Corinthians 7:31

Use. Gr. chraomai, “to make use of,” “to have dealings with.” As long as men remain in this fallen world it will be necessary to make use of the things that are in the world in order to provide for the necessities of life, such as food, clothing, and shelter. It is perfectly proper for men so to “use this world,” for it was made for such a purpose (see Gen. 1:26-31; Isa. 45:18).

Abusing. Gr. katachraomai, “to use to the full,” “to misuse.” However, at times katachraomai is not distinguished in meaning, or only slightly so, from chraomai (see above under “use”). If such is the case here, the passage may be translated, “And they that make use of the world, as if they made no use of it.” Christians are called on to be wise in their use of the things of this world, not exercising their freedom in the use of their Lord’s goods for the purpose of gratifying selfish desires and glorifying men. They must be on guard lest they allow their interest in the things of this world to crowd out their interest in the things of the kingdom of God. They should let sanctified reason guide, subordinating the selfish desires of the natural heart to the higher claims of their spiritual well-being (see Matt. 6:31-34; 13:22; Luke 21:34).

Fashion. Gr. schema, “outward appearance,” “form,” here referring to the world in its present condition.

Passeth away. Inasmuch as the world in its present condition is to come to an end (see 2 Peter 3:10; 1 John 2:17; Rev. 21:1), it is folly to set one’s heart on the temporary things of life. Parents especially need to be on the alert so as to avoid being entrapped by Satan into devoting their time and energies to the task of acquiring wealth, while the mental improvement and moral culture of their children are being neglected.