What Does the Bible Say About Being Single?
What Does the Bible Say About Being Single? The Bible honors singleness as a legitimate, even advantageous calling — Paul himself was single and commended it as an opportunity for undivided devotion to God.
Key verse: 1 Corinthians 7:8 (KJV)
The Bible honors singleness as a legitimate, even advantageous calling — Paul himself was single and commended it as an opportunity for undivided devotion to God.
The Bible honors singleness as a legitimate, even advantageous calling — Paul himself was single and commended it as an opportunity for undivided devotion to God.
"I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I." — 1 Corinthians 7:8 (KJV)
Meaning
Plain-language explanation
In Context
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The Biblical Answer
In a culture that often idolizes marriage, Scripture presents a balanced view. Paul wrote, 'I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I' (1 Corinthians 7:8). He explained the practical advantage: 'He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord: But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world' (1 Corinthians 7:32-33). Jesus Himself was single, demonstrating a fully complete life without marriage. He mentioned those who remain single 'for the kingdom of heaven's sake' (Matthew 19:12). Isaiah 56:4-5 promises that faithful eunuchs (those unable to marry) will receive 'a name better than of sons and of daughters.' Singleness is not a lesser state but a different calling. Whether married or single, the goal is the same: 'Whether ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God' (1 Corinthians 10:31). Both states have unique advantages for serving God.
Topic Overview
What Does the Bible Say About Being Single?
Biblical encouragement for single Christians and what Scripture says about the gift of singleness.
Key Scripture References
"I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I."
"He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord."
"There be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake."
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questions
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Deep Dive Commentary
For a more in-depth study, read our verse-by-verse commentary:
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Read it in context
The answer above sits inside 1 Corinthians. The 365-day chronological plan reads it in the order the events happened.
Read 1 Corinthians on day 324 of the chronological Bible reading planKeep the verses to hand
Every verse quoted in “What Does the Bible Say About Being Single?” comes from the King James Version, free to download and print.
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