1 Corinthians 7:37

KJV

Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power over his own will, and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well.

KJV (with Strong's)

Nevertheless {G1161} he {G3739} that standeth {G2476} stedfast {G1476} in {G1722} his heart {G2588}, having {G2192} no {G3361} necessity {G318}, but {G1161} hath {G2192} power {G1849} over {G4012} his own {G2398} will {G2307}, and {G2532} hath {G2919} so {G5124} decreed {G2919} in {G1722} his {G846} heart {G2588} that he will keep {G5083} his {G1438} virgin {G3933}, doeth {G4160} well {G2573}.

Complete Jewish Bible

But if a man has firmly made up his mind, being under no compulsion but having complete control over his will, if he has decided within himself to keep his fiancée a virgin, he will be doing well.

Berean Standard Bible

But the man who is firmly established in his heart and under no constraint, with control over his will and resolve in his heart not to marry the virgin, he will do well.

American Standard Version

But he that standeth stedfast in his heart, having no necessity, but hath power as touching his own will, and hath determined this in his own heart, to keep his own virgin daughter, shall do well.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
First Corinthians 7:37 presents a commendation for the individual who, acting from a place of settled conviction and uncoerced freedom, deliberately chooses to maintain a state of celibacy for themselves or to keep their virgin daughter unmarried. This verse highlights the spiritual value of a decision made not out of necessity or external pressure, but from a firm internal resolve and full control over one's own will, affirming such a choice as pleasing in God's sight.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within Paul's extensive discourse on marriage, singleness, and celibacy in [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Instructions on Marriage and Singleness"). Following his general advice that "it is good for them to remain as I am" (i.e., single, as per [1 Corinthians 7:8](/1_corinthians/7-8 "1 Corinthians 7:8 - Paul's Advice on Singleness")), Paul addresses specific scenarios. Verse 37 stands in direct contrast to the preceding verse, [1 Corinthians 7:36](/1_corinthians/7-36 "1 Corinthians 7:36 - When to Marry"), which describes a situation where a man (or guardian) feels compelled by strong passions or a sense of obligation to marry off his virgin daughter, lest she "pass the flower of her age." In contrast, verse 37 describes the individual who is *not* under such compulsion, possessing full control and making a deliberate, unforced decision to keep the virgin unmarried. This juxtaposition underscores Paul's emphasis on intentionality and freedom in these deeply personal and spiritual matters.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In the Greco-Roman world, and particularly within Jewish tradition, marriage was often a social and economic necessity, and parental authority over a daughter's marriage was absolute. Fathers or guardians arranged marriages, and a daughter's virginity was highly valued as a prerequisite for marriage. To keep a daughter unmarried was unusual and potentially socially challenging, as it could imply a lack of suitors or an inability to provide a dowry, or it could be seen as defying societal norms. Paul's advice, therefore, challenges conventional expectations by elevating the spiritual considerations of singleness and celibacy above mere social or economic pressures. The "present distress" mentioned in [1 Corinthians 7:26](/1_corinthians/7-26 "1 Corinthians 7:26 - The Present Distress") likely refers to the challenging circumstances faced by early Christians, such as persecution or eschatological expectation, which made singleness a more practical and spiritually focused option.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several key themes woven throughout [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Instructions on Marriage and Singleness") and the broader Pauline epistles. Foremost among these is **Christian Liberty and Self-Control**, emphasizing the believer's freedom in Christ to make choices guided by spiritual conviction rather than external compulsion or societal pressure. This liberty is linked to **Prudence and Deliberate Choice**, as the verse highlights a decision made with firm internal resolve ("standeth stedfast in his heart") and full agency ("power over his own will"). Furthermore, it reinforces the **Value of Celibacy/Singleness** as a legitimate and even commendable path for those who are called and gifted for it, enabling "undivided devotion" to the Lord, a concept Paul elaborates on in [1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion"). The concluding phrase "doeth well" serves as a strong **Affirmation** of such a Spirit-led and purposeful decision.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **stedfast (Greek, _hedraîos'_):** Derived from a word meaning "to sit," this term implies being sedentary or, by implication, immovable. In this context, it describes a person who is firmly settled, stable, and unyielding in their internal resolve. It speaks to a decision that is not wavering or subject to external pressures, but is deeply rooted and fixed within the heart.
* **power (Greek, _exousía'_):** This word denotes privilege, force, capacity, competency, freedom, or mastery. Here, it signifies the individual's legitimate authority and control over their own will and intentions. It is not a power derived from external coercion, but an inherent ability to make independent, self-determined choices, underscoring agency and self-mastery.
* **decreed (Greek, _krínō'_):** Properly meaning "to distinguish," this verb extends to deciding, judging, or determining. When applied to a decision made "in his heart," it indicates a settled, firm, and deliberate judgment or resolution. It's a definitive choice, thoughtfully arrived at, rather than an impulsive reaction or a reluctant concession.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart":** This clause introduces a contrast (implied by "nevertheless") to the previous verse. It describes an individual whose internal state is one of unwavering resolve and firm conviction. The decision is rooted deeply within their inner being, not superficial or easily swayed.
* **"having no necessity":** This phrase clarifies the nature of the individual's freedom. They are not under any external compulsion, pressing obligation, or urgent need (such as social pressure, economic distress, or the "passions" mentioned in the preceding verse) that would force a particular course of action regarding marriage.
* **"but hath power over his own will":** This emphasizes the individual's autonomy and self-control. They possess the authority and capacity to direct their own desires, intentions, and choices. This is a crucial aspect of Christian maturity, where one's will is brought under the discipline of the Spirit rather than being dictated by external circumstances or internal impulses.
* **"and hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin":** This signifies a deliberate, settled, and intentional decision. The "virgin" can refer to his unmarried daughter (a common interpretation given cultural context) or, less commonly, to his own state of celibacy (if "his virgin" refers to his own virginity). The key is the firm, internal determination to maintain this unmarried state.
* **"doeth well":** This concluding affirmation signifies that such a decision, made with steadfast conviction, freedom from compulsion, and self-mastery, is excellent, honorable, and pleasing in God's sight. It is a positive endorsement of a choice aligned with spiritual wisdom.

#### Literary Devices
The verse primarily employs **Contrast** with the preceding verse ([1 Corinthians 7:36](/1_corinthians/7-36 "1 Corinthians 7:36 - When to Marry")), highlighting the difference between a compelled decision and a free, deliberate one. There is a strong **Emphasis** on the internal state and agency of the individual, repeatedly using phrases like "in his heart" and "power over his own will" to underscore the intentionality and self-control involved. The phrase "standeth stedfast in his heart" is an **Idiom** conveying deep, unwavering resolve. The concluding phrase "doeth well" serves as a clear **Affirmation** and commendation of the described action, providing a positive theological judgment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Corinthians 7:37 profoundly illustrates the Christian principle of liberty within the framework of spiritual discernment. It teaches that while God establishes general principles, He also grants believers freedom in personal matters, especially when those choices are made with a clear conscience and for the sake of greater devotion to Him. This verse elevates the internal state of the heart and the exercise of a Spirit-controlled will above societal expectations or perceived necessities. It underscores that true spiritual "well-doing" is not merely about outward conformity but about inward conviction and purposeful decision-making, particularly in areas like marital status that significantly impact one's capacity for service and devotion.

* [1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion")
* [Romans 14:5](/romans/14-5 "Romans 14:5 - Conviction in Personal Matters")
* [Proverbs 3:5-6](/proverbs/3-5-6 "Proverbs 3:5-6 - Trust in the Lord with All Your Heart")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
In a world that often pressures individuals into certain life paths, 1 Corinthians 7:37 offers a liberating perspective for believers. It encourages us to cultivate an inner steadfastness and to make significant life decisions, especially concerning relationships, career, or ministry, from a place of settled conviction rather than external or internal compulsion. This verse challenges us to examine our motivations: are we acting out of societal pressure, fear, or fleeting desires, or are our choices rooted in a deep, prayerful discernment of God's will for our lives? It affirms that exercising self-control and wielding "power over our own will" to pursue a path of greater devotion, even if unconventional, is highly commendable in God's eyes. This applies not only to marital status but to any significant life choice where we seek to prioritize God's kingdom and serve Him with undivided attention.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what areas of my life do I feel external or internal "necessity" pushing me towards a decision, rather than allowing me to stand "stedfast in my heart"?**
* **How can I cultivate greater "power over my own will" to make choices that align with God's purposes rather than my own unbridled desires or societal expectations?**
* **What might "keeping my virgin" or "doing well" look like in my current life circumstances, in terms of dedicating myself more fully to the Lord?**

### FAQ

**Who is "he" and "his virgin" in this verse, and how does it apply today?**

Answer: The "he" is generally interpreted as a father or guardian who has a virgin daughter under his care and authority, as was customary in the ancient world. "His virgin" refers to this daughter. However, some interpretations suggest "his virgin" could refer to the man's own virginity, meaning he is deciding to remain celibate, perhaps after a betrothal. Given the broader context of [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Instructions on Marriage and Singleness"), which addresses both singleness and marriage for individuals, both interpretations have merit, though the former is more common historically. Today, while the specific cultural context of arranged marriages by a father is less common, the underlying principles remain highly relevant. The verse speaks to the importance of making significant life decisions—especially regarding relationships and commitment—from a place of settled conviction, freedom from coercion, and intentional self-control, whether for oneself or in guiding those under one's care. It affirms the spiritual value of choosing a path of singleness or celibacy if done with purpose and devotion to God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 7:37 directly addresses a practical decision within a specific cultural context, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Jesus Himself lived a life of singleness, demonstrating complete and [undivided devotion to the Father's will](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will") and the advancement of the Kingdom. His life exemplifies the ultimate "stedfastness in heart" and "power over His own will" as He resolutely pursued His mission, even to the cross ([Luke 9:51](/luke/9-51 "Luke 9:51 - Jesus Sets His Face Toward Jerusalem")). Furthermore, the freedom described in this verse—freedom from necessity and power over one's will—is ultimately found in Christ. Through His Spirit, believers are empowered to live not by the dictates of the flesh or the pressures of the world, but by a renewed mind and a will submitted to God ([Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind")). The "doeth well" of this verse is fulfilled in Christ, who is the perfect embodiment of doing the Father's will and who enables us to live lives that are pleasing and honorable to God, whether in marriage or in singleness, all for the glory of His name ([Colossians 3:17](/colossians/3-17 "Colossians 3:17 - Do Everything in the Name of Jesus")).

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.