1 Corinthians 7:35

And this I speak for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is comely, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

And {G1161} this {G5124} I speak {G3004} for {G4314} your {G5216} own {G846} profit {G4851}; not {G3756} that {G2443} I may cast {G1911} a snare {G1029} upon you {G5213}, but {G235} for that which {G4314} is comely {G2158}, and {G2532} that ye may attend upon {G2145} the Lord {G2962} without distraction {G563}.

I am telling you this for your own benefit, not to put restrictions on you — I am simply concerned that you live in a proper manner and serve the Lord with undivided devotion.

I am saying this for your own good, not to restrict you, but in order to promote proper decorum and undivided devotion to the Lord.

And this I say for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is seemly, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

1 Corinthians 7:35 is a pivotal verse in Paul's extensive discussion on marriage, singleness, and spiritual devotion. Here, the Apostle Paul clarifies the motivation behind his counsel, emphasizing that his advice is for the Corinthians' spiritual benefit and freedom, not to impose a burden.

Context

In 1 Corinthians chapter 7, Paul addresses various questions from the Corinthian church regarding marriage, divorce, and celibacy. His overarching theme is that believers should remain in the state in which they were called, whether married or single, unless there are compelling reasons otherwise. Paul expresses a preference for singleness for those who can manage it, primarily because it allows for undivided devotion to the Lord. Verse 35 serves as Paul's explanation for this preference, assuring his readers that his guidance is not a restrictive command but a helpful suggestion aimed at their spiritual well-being.

Key Themes

  • For Your Own Profit: Paul's counsel is rooted in love and concern for the Corinthians' spiritual advantage. He seeks their benefit, not to control or dictate their lives. This highlights a pastoral heart, desiring what is truly best for their relationship with God.
  • Not a Snare: The phrase "not that I may cast a snare upon you" reveals Paul's intention to avoid legalism or creating a burdensome obligation. His advice is not meant to trap them into a specific lifestyle or make them feel guilty if they choose marriage. It underscores that spiritual decisions should be made in liberty and for devotion.
  • Comely and Proper Conduct: "For that which is comely" suggests that Paul's advice promotes what is honorable, appropriate, and conducive to a godly life. It points to a way of living that is fitting for those who belong to Christ, maintaining a good testimony and focus.
  • Undistracted Devotion: The core purpose of Paul's advice is to enable believers to "attend upon the Lord without distraction." This means being fully engaged in service, prayer, and worship without the competing cares and concerns that can arise from marital or worldly responsibilities. It's about a singular focus on God's will and kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

  • The word for "snare" is the Greek brochos (βρόχος), which literally means a "noose" or "loop." It vividly portrays the idea of being bound or restricted, emphasizing that Paul's counsel is liberating, not limiting.
  • "Comely" translates the Greek euschemon (εὐσχημον), meaning "seemly," "proper," or "decent." It refers to what is fitting and honorable, reflecting a life lived in accordance with Christian principles.
  • "Attend upon" comes from the Greek euparedron (εὐπάρεδρον), which implies sitting close by, being devoted to, or giving oneself entirely to something. It conveys the idea of continuous, dedicated service and presence with the Lord.
  • "Without distraction" is from the Greek aperispastos (ἀπερισπάστως), meaning "without being drawn away" or "undividedly." It perfectly encapsulates Paul's desire for believers to have an unhindered focus on their spiritual walk and service to God.

Practical Application

This verse offers timeless wisdom for believers today. While Paul's immediate context was singleness, the underlying principle applies to all aspects of life: our choices should aim to maximize our ability to serve and glorify God without unnecessary hindrance. Whether single, married, or in any other life stage, the call is to prioritize our relationship with the Lord. We are encouraged to evaluate our commitments and activities, ensuring they contribute to our spiritual growth and undivided devotion to God, rather than becoming sources of distraction. It reminds us that spiritual freedom is found in purposeful living that seeks to honor Christ above all else, always aiming to seek first the kingdom of God.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:33

    But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please [his] wife.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:34

    There is difference [also] between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please [her] husband.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:36

    ¶ But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of [her] age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.

  • Luke 8:14

    And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of [this] life, and bring no fruit to perfection.

  • Philippians 4:8

    Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things [are] honest, whatsoever things [are] just, whatsoever things [are] pure, whatsoever things [are] lovely, whatsoever things [are] of good report; if [there be] any virtue, and if [there be] any praise, think on these things.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:2

    Nevertheless, [to avoid] fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

  • Matthew 19:12

    For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from [their] mother's womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive [it], let him receive [it].

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