1 Corinthians 7:5

Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.

Cross-reference

In 1 Cor 7:35, Paul explains his goal — undivided devotion to the Lord — which is precisely the purpose for the temporary abstinence in 7:5.

Exodus 19:15 provides OT precedent for temporary marital abstinence to prepare for encountering God, similar to the prayer focus here.

1 Samuel 21:4 requires abstinence from women to eat consecrated bread, paralleling the temporary abstinence for prayer here.

1 Samuel 21:5 expands on David's practice of abstinence during holy missions, paralleling the temporary abstinence for prayer here.

Joel 2:16 Parallel

Joel 2:16 calls for even newlyweds to leave their chamber for consecration, similar to the call for temporary abstinence for prayer.

Ecclesiastes 3:5 acknowledges seasons for embracing and refraining — Paul applies this rhythm to marriage, allowing a temporary pause for prayer.

2 Cor 2:11 warns about being outwitted by Satan — here Paul cautions that prolonged abstinence opens a door for his temptation.

Numbers 30:13 gives husbands authority over wives' vows — here Paul shifts to mutual consent for devotional time, showing a new covenant dynamic.

Matthew 9:15 links fasting to the bridegroom's absence — Paul echoes that metaphor, permitting a season of abstinence for devotion.

Matthew 19:11 shows lifelong celibacy is a gift, while this verse permits only temporary abstinence; they complement each other.

Mark 2:20 Allusion

Mark 2:20 describes fasting when the bridegroom is taken away — Paul uses that imagery to justify a temporary fast from intimacy for prayer.

Luke 5:35 Allusion

Luke 5:35 ties fasting to the bridegroom's absence — Paul applies that principle to marriage, allowing a season of abstinence for prayer.

Matthew 6:16 instructs on the attitude during fasting — the same practice Paul pairs with prayer as a valid reason for marital abstinence.

Matthew 17:21 highlights prayer and fasting for spiritual warfare — the same disciplines Paul suggests as the purpose for temporary abstinence.

Acts 13:2 Parallel

Acts 13:2 shows the church fasting and praying for guidance — the same devotion Paul encourages married couples to engage in temporarily.

1 Thessalonians 3:5 also refers to the tempter (Satan) tempting believers, echoing the warning in this verse.