1 Corinthians 7:32-35
Singleness can free a believer for undivided devotion to the Lord.
32 But I desire to have you to be free from cares. He who is unmarried is concerned for the things of the Lord, how he may please the Lord;
33 but he who is married is concerned about the things of the world, how he may please his wife.
34 There is also a difference between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman cares about the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit. But she who is married cares about the things of the world—how she may please her husband.
35 This I say for your own profit; not that I may ensnare you, but for that which is appropriate, and that you may attend to the Lord without distraction.
Singleness can free a believer for undivided devotion to the Lord.
Paul explains that singleness can provide freedom from certain worldly concerns, allowing believers to devote themselves more fully to the Lord.
Paul continues his discussion about marriage and singleness in light of the present age and its pressures. Having emphasized the temporary nature of the world and the importance of kingdom priorities, he now explains the practical differences between married and unmarried life. Marriage involves responsibilities that are both legitimate and honorable, but these responsibilities naturally divide one's attention. Paul’s teaching highlights the potential advantages of singleness for focused service to God while still affirming the goodness of marriage.
In the Corinthian church, believers were asking questions about marriage, singleness, and spiritual devotion. Cultural expectations in Roman society strongly encouraged marriage, but Paul highlights that Christian service can take different forms depending on one’s life circumstances.
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.