1 Corinthians 7:40

KJV

But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} she is {G2076} happier {G3107} if {G1437} she {G3306} so {G3779} abide {G3306}, after {G2596} my {G1699} judgment {G1106}: and {G1161} I think {G1380} also {G2504} that I have {G2192} the Spirit {G4151} of God {G2316}.

Complete Jewish Bible

However, in my opinion, she will be happier if she remains unmarried, and in saying this I think I have God’s Spirit.

Berean Standard Bible

In my judgment, however, she is happier if she remains as she is. And I think that I too have the Spirit of God.

American Standard Version

But she is happier if she abide as she is, after my judgment: and I think that I also have the Spirit of God.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 7:40, Paul concludes his extensive discourse on marriage and singleness by offering specific counsel to widows, stating his personal judgment that they would find greater happiness and blessedness if they remained unmarried. He undergirds this advice with a humble yet firm assertion of his divine inspiration, expressing his conviction that his counsel is guided by the Spirit of God. This verse encapsulates Paul's consistent theme throughout the chapter regarding the practical advantages of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord, while simultaneously affirming the authoritative yet pastoral nature of his apostolic guidance.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse serves as the concluding statement to Paul's lengthy and nuanced discussion on marriage, singleness, and divorce, which spans the entirety of [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Teaching on Marriage and Singleness"). Immediately preceding it, [1 Corinthians 7:39](/1_corinthians/7-39 "1 Corinthians 7:39 - The Widow's Freedom to Remarry") establishes the principle that a wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives, but upon his death, she is free to remarry, "only in the Lord." Verse 40 then builds directly on this freedom, offering Paul's personal, Spirit-informed recommendation. The broader chapter addresses various relationship statuses—married, single, divorced, widowed—and consistently weighs the benefits of each in light of the "present distress" ([1 Corinthians 7:26](/1_corinthians/7-26 "1 Corinthians 7:26 - The Present Distress")) and the call to undivided devotion to the Lord ([1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion to the Lord")).
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Corinth was a bustling, cosmopolitan port city known for its diverse population, wealth, and moral laxity. Marriage was generally expected, and for women, it was often the primary means of social and economic security. Widows, while sometimes vulnerable, also held a unique social position, often with more autonomy than married women. Paul's advice in this chapter is given within a context where some Corinthians were advocating for asceticism (even within marriage, as seen in [1 Corinthians 7:1-5](/1_corinthians/7-1-5 "1 Corinthians 7:1-5 - Marital Relations")), while others were struggling with the implications of their Christian faith on existing marital or single statuses. Paul's counsel here, particularly for widows, challenges the societal expectation of remarriage by presenting singleness as a divinely blessed option, not merely a state of deprivation or transition.
* **Key Themes:** A central theme running through [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Counsel on Relationships") is the **advantage of singleness for devotion**. Paul repeatedly suggests that an unmarried state can allow for greater freedom from worldly anxieties and a more focused commitment to the Lord's service ([1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Freedom from Worldly Cares")). Another crucial theme is the **distinction between apostolic counsel and divine commandment**. Paul explicitly differentiates between what he commands "from the Lord" (e.g., [1 Corinthians 7:10](/1_corinthians/7-10 "1 Corinthians 7:10 - The Lord's Command on Divorce")) and what he offers as his "judgment" or opinion, albeit one he believes is Spirit-guided. This highlights the nature of inspired wisdom, which can include both direct commands and authoritative, pastoral recommendations. Finally, the verse underscores the **guidance of the Holy Spirit** in apostolic teaching, affirming that even Paul's personal assessments are not merely human wisdom but are informed and empowered by the Spirit of God ([1 Corinthians 2:10-16](/1_corinthians/2-10-16 "1 Corinthians 2:10-16 - The Spirit Reveals God's Wisdom")).

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **happier (Greek, _makários'_):** From G3107, meaning supremely blest, by extension, fortunate, well off. Paul uses the comparative form (makariōtera), meaning "more blessed" or "more fortunate." This is not a mere emotional state but a condition of divine favor and spiritual well-being, implying that remaining single offers a path to a more spiritually advantageous or fulfilling life in God's eyes, free from the additional cares and distractions that marriage often brings.
* **judgment (Greek, _gnṓmē'_):** From G1106, meaning cognition, opinion, or resolve (counsel, consent, purpose, will). This word indicates Paul's personal opinion, advice, or counsel, rather than a direct command from the Lord. It signifies a considered and informed assessment, distinct from a divine imperative (like *epitages*). However, the subsequent clause clarifies that this "judgment" is not merely human but divinely informed.
* **Spirit (Greek, _pneûma'_):** From G4151, meaning a current of air, breath, or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital principle, mental disposition, etc., or (superhuman) an angel, demon, or (divine) God, Christ's spirit, the Holy Spirit. Here, "the Spirit of God" (Pneuma Theou) unequivocally refers to the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity, who inspires and guides believers, especially apostles, in their teaching and counsel.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment":** Paul begins with a conditional statement, offering his considered opinion regarding the state of a widow. The term "happier" (makariōtera) suggests a comparative blessedness or spiritual advantage. If she "so abide," meaning if she remains in her current state of singleness (as a widow), Paul believes this path leads to a more fortunate or blessed existence. This is presented as "my judgment" (kata ten emen gnomēn), clearly indicating it is his personal counsel, not a direct command from the Lord.
* **"and I think also that I have the Spirit of God":** This crucial second clause immediately qualifies Paul's "judgment." The phrase "I think" (dokō) might sound hesitant, but in Greek rhetoric, it can be a modest yet firm way of asserting a strong conviction or authority. By adding "also that I have the Spirit of God," Paul asserts that his personal judgment is not merely human wisdom but is divinely inspired and guided by the Holy Spirit. This lends apostolic authority to his counsel, even though it is framed as a recommendation rather than an absolute command.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concluding statement. The use of **Apostolic Authority** is evident, as Paul, despite framing his advice as a "judgment," immediately follows it with an assertion of divine inspiration. This is a common Pauline strategy to establish the weight and source of his teaching. There is also an element of **Modesty or Humility** in his phrasing, "I think also that I have the Spirit of God," which avoids a boastful tone while still conveying profound confidence in his divine guidance. This rhetorical approach allows his counsel to be received as both authoritative and pastoral. Furthermore, the verse functions as a **Concluding Summary and Affirmation**, bringing his detailed discussion to a close with a final, Spirit-informed piece of advice that reinforces the chapter's overarching themes.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
1 Corinthians 7:40 powerfully encapsulates several profound theological and thematic truths. It underscores the Christian understanding of freedom within God's will, particularly for those who have experienced loss. While remarriage is permitted "in the Lord," Paul elevates the spiritual advantages of singleness, not as a superior state in itself, but as one that can facilitate undivided devotion to Christ and His kingdom. This challenges societal pressures and affirms that true happiness and blessedness are found in aligning with God's purposes, which can manifest in diverse life paths. Moreover, Paul's assertion of having the "Spirit of God" highlights the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in guiding believers, particularly those in apostolic leadership, ensuring that their counsel, even when presented as personal judgment, carries divine weight and wisdom for the church.

* [1 Corinthians 2:10-16](/1_corinthians/2-10-16 "1 Corinthians 2:10-16 - The Spirit Reveals God's Wisdom"): Paul explains how the Spirit reveals the deep things of God, enabling him to speak divine wisdom.
* [2 Timothy 3:16](/2_timothy/3-16 "2 Timothy 3:16 - All Scripture is God-breathed"): All Scripture is God-breathed and profitable for teaching, affirming the divine inspiration behind apostolic writings and counsel.
* [Romans 12:2](/romans/12-2 "Romans 12:2 - Transformed by the Renewing of Your Mind"): Believers are called to discern God's good, pleasing, and perfect will, which often involves seeking Spirit-guided wisdom for personal decisions.

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 7:40 offers profound insights for believers today, encouraging a thoughtful approach to life choices and a deeper reliance on divine guidance. It challenges the common cultural narrative that often equates happiness solely with marriage or romantic partnership, instead presenting singleness as a valid, even advantageous, path for some individuals seeking to devote themselves more fully to the Lord. This verse calls us to consider how our life circumstances, whether married or single, can be leveraged for God's glory and kingdom purposes. It reminds us that true blessedness is not found in conforming to societal expectations but in discerning and embracing God's unique call for our lives, trusting that His Spirit will guide us in our personal judgments and decisions, just as He guided Paul.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How might cultural expectations about marriage or singleness influence my perception of "happiness" or "blessedness," and how does Paul's perspective challenge these?**
* **In what areas of my life am I seeking God's "judgment" or Spirit-guided counsel, rather than relying solely on human wisdom or societal norms?**
* **If singleness can lead to "happier" or more devoted service, what practical steps can I take to maximize my devotion to the Lord in my current life stage?**
* **How does Paul's assertion of having the "Spirit of God" encourage my own reliance on the Holy Spirit for guidance in significant life decisions?**

### FAQ

**Does Paul's "judgment" mean his advice is less authoritative than a direct command?**

Answer: While Paul distinguishes his "judgment" (gnōmē) from a direct command from the Lord (epitages), his immediate assertion, "and I think also that I have the Spirit of God," indicates that his counsel is nonetheless divinely inspired and carries apostolic authority. It's not a mere human opinion but a Spirit-guided recommendation. This means it's authoritative wisdom for the church, though it might allow for more individual discretion than a direct command. It highlights that God's guidance can come in various forms, including wise counsel for specific situations, not just universal imperatives. For example, in [1 Corinthians 7:6](/1_corinthians/7-6 "1 Corinthians 7:6 - Paul's Concession"), Paul uses a similar approach regarding marital relations.

**Is Paul saying that all widows should remain unmarried?**

Answer: No, Paul is not issuing a universal command. He states that a widow "is happier if she so abide," presenting it as a beneficial option rather than a strict rule. He explicitly states in [1 Corinthians 7:39](/1_corinthians/7-39 "1 Corinthians 7:39 - Freedom to Remarry") that a widow is "at liberty to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord." His counsel in verse 40 is a strong recommendation based on his assessment of the spiritual advantages of undivided devotion, not a prohibition against remarriage. The emphasis is on the potential for greater spiritual focus when unencumbered by marital responsibilities.

**How can I know if my personal decisions are guided by the Spirit of God, like Paul's?**

Answer: While believers today do not have the unique apostolic authority and direct inspiration that Paul possessed for writing Scripture, the Holy Spirit still guides believers in their personal decisions. This guidance comes through prayer, studying God's Word ([Psalm 119:105](/psalms/119-105 "Psalm 119:105 - Your Word is a Lamp")), wise counsel from mature believers ([Proverbs 11:14](/proverbs/11-14 "Proverbs 11:14 - Wisdom in Many Counselors")), and the inner witness of the Spirit ([Romans 8:14](/romans/8-14 "Romans 8:14 - Led by the Spirit")). Discerning God's will is a lifelong process of walking in obedience and seeking His wisdom, trusting that He desires to lead His children in paths that bring true blessedness and honor to Him.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 7:40 directly addresses the practicalities of singleness for widows, its underlying principles find profound Christ-centered fulfillment. Paul's counsel for undivided devotion to the Lord echoes the ultimate example of Jesus Christ, who lived a life of singular focus on His Father's will, unencumbered by earthly familial ties, to accomplish the work of redemption ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do the Will of God")). His ultimate "happiness" or blessedness was found in perfect obedience, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Furthermore, Paul's confidence in having the "Spirit of God" points to Christ's promise to send the Holy Spirit as the Helper and Guide for His disciples ([John 14:26](/john/14-26 "John 14:26 - The Holy Spirit, the Helper")). The Spirit, whom Christ poured out after His ascension ([Acts 2:33](/acts/2-33 "Acts 2:33 - The Pouring Out of the Holy Spirit")), continues to empower believers to live lives of focused devotion, whether single or married, enabling them to pursue the "happier" path of living fully for the Lord who bought them with His own blood ([1 Corinthians 6:20](/1_corinthians/6-20 "1 Corinthians 6:20 - Bought with a Price")). Thus, the Spirit-guided counsel for singleness ultimately serves to orient believers more fully towards Christ and His kingdom, reflecting His own single-minded pursuit of God's redemptive purposes.

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.

Cross-References

2 Peter 3:15

And account [that] the longsuffering of our Lord [is] salvation; even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the wisdom given unto him hath written unto you;

2 Peter 3:16

As also in all [his] epistles, speaking in them of these things; in which are some things hard to be understood, which they that are unlearned and unstable wrest, as [they do] also the other scriptures, unto their own destruction.

1 Corinthians 7:25

¶ Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: yet I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be faithful.

1 Corinthians 7:26

I suppose therefore that this is good for the present distress, [I say], that [it is] good for a man so to be.

1 Corinthians 7:8

I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.

2 Corinthians 12:11

¶ I am become a fool in glorying; ye have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended of you: for in nothing am I behind the very chiefest apostles, though I be nothing.

1 Corinthians 14:36

¶ What? came the word of God out from you? or came it unto you only?