Scripture#

Observation#

Verses that stuck out#

"But if any man thinks he is behaving imporperly toward his virgin,

if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do,

let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry.

Nevertheless he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity,

but has power over his own will, and has so determined in his heart

that he will keep his virgin, does well. So then he who gives her in

marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better"

1 Corinthians 7:36-38

**Breaking down 1 Corinthians 7:36-38#

Context#

Paul is still speaking about marriage and singleness, giving pastoral guidance to believers in Corinth.

The culture at the time had engagements arranged by fathers or guardians. The phrase “his virgin” likely refers to a **father or guardian responsible for an unmarried daughter (though some translations interpret it as a fiance engaged to be married).

Either way, Paul is offering wisdom for those uncertain whether to proceed with marriage or remain single - especially under “the present distress” (v.26), a period or hardship or persecution.

He emphasizes freedom, self-control, and discernment rather than law or pressure.

“But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry.”

• “Behaving improperly” means failing to act appropriately - for example, a father delaying his daughter’s marriage beyond what’s reasonable, or a man engaged to a woman who’s now ready for marriage.
• “Past the flower of youth” indicates she’s of mature age for marriage.
• Paul’s instruction: if marriage is appropriate and both desire it, they should marry without guilt.
• “He does not sin” affirms that marriage is honorable and not spiritually inferior to singleness.

“Nevertheless he who stands steadfast in his heart, having no necessity, but has power over his own will, and has so determined in his heart that he will keep his virgin, does well.”

• If a man (or father) is firmly convinced it’s better not to marry or to keep his his daughter unmarried (in that difficult time), that’s also honorable.
• “Having no necessity” means he’s not under external pressure or burning with passion - he’s content and self-controlled.
• “Power over his own will” reflects maturity and inner strength.
• Choosing to remain single (or delay marriage) for devotion to the Lord is not a sin - it’s commendable if done out of faith and peace, not fear or pride.

“So then he who gives her in marriage does well, but he who does not give her in marriage does better.”

• Paul summarizes: both choices are good, but in that particular context of hardship, remaining single might allow for greater focus and fewer burdens.
• “Does well” = obedience and wisdom; “Does better” = greater freedom for undivided devotion to God.
• The “better” is not moral superiority, but practical advantage - less distraction, more service opportunity.

Takeaway#

• God gives freedom - not rules - regarding marriage or singleness.
• Both can honor God when approached with the right heart and motives.
• Singleness can offer spiritual advantages, but marriage is equally holy when centered on Christ.
• The key is intentional, Spirit-led decision-making rather than reacting to pressure, lust, or culture.

Application#

• Seek God’s guidance before major life decisions. Don’t let emotion, age, or social expectations rush you.
• Stay self-controlled. If you’re single, focuson growing spiritually and emotionally so you can discern God’s will clearly.
• Don’t feel guilt about whichever path God calls you to - both are gifts (1 Cor. 7:7).
• Remember the motive: Paul’s focus was devotion to Christ, not restriction of freedom.
• The question is never “Which is better?” but “Which helps ME serve Jesus best right now?”

Prayer#

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving freedom and grace in every season of life. Teach me to seek Your will above my own desires or the world’s expectations.

If marriage is Your plan for me, prepare me to love selflessly and serve faithfully. If singleness is my calling for now, help me to use it fully for Your glory. Grant me wisdom, patience, and peace in every decision. Above all, may my life - married or single - be undivided in its devotion to You.

In Jesus’ name we pay

Amen.