What Does the Bible Say About Being Single — In Biblical Context
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)
The Biblical Context
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.
Where It Sits in Scripture
The core passage for this question, 1 Corinthians 7:8, sits inside 1 Corinthians 7. To grasp the full meaning, read the surrounding paragraph — the verses before set up the thought, the verses after carry it forward.
"I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I."
Supporting Passages
"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."
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