1 Corinthians 7:25-28
Marriage is good, but singleness may spare believers certain earthly troubles.
25 Now concerning virgins, I have no commandment from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who has obtained mercy from the Lord to be trustworthy.
26 Therefore I think that because of the distress that is on us, that it’s good for a man to remain as he is.
27 Are you bound to a wife? Don’t seek to be freed. Are you free from a wife? Don’t seek a wife.
28 But if you marry, you have not sinned. If a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have oppression in the flesh, and I want to spare you.
Marriage is good, but singleness may spare believers certain earthly troubles.
Paul offers pastoral guidance regarding the unmarried in light of present pressures, affirming that marriage is permissible while commending singleness for practical reasons.
In the broader discussion of chapter 7, Paul continues addressing different relational situations within the Corinthian church. After establishing the principle of remaining faithful within one's calling, he now turns to those who have never married. His counsel is shaped by what he calls the 'present distress,' likely referring to social, cultural, or persecution-related pressures affecting the early Christian community. While singleness may offer certain practical advantages in such times, Paul carefully affirms that marriage remains honorable and legitimate.
Paul addresses unmarried individuals within the Corinthian church who were navigating decisions about marriage. The early Christian movement faced social instability, economic pressures, and potential persecution. These realities likely influenced Paul’s counsel regarding the practical implications of marriage during that period.
Marriage, Singleness, Calling, and Undistracted Devotion to the Lord
In light of the present age and the believer’s belonging to Christ, marriage and singleness are both gifts to be stewarded with holiness, faithfulness, contentment, and undistracted devotion to the Lord.