1 Corinthians 7:8

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

I say {G3004} therefore {G1161} to the unmarried {G22} and {G2532} widows {G5503}, It is {G2076} good {G2570} for them {G846} if {G1437} they abide {G3306} even {G2504} as {G5613} I {G2504}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Now to the single people and the widows I say that it is fine if they remain unmarried like me;

Berean Standard Bible

Now to the unmarried and widows I say this: It is good for them to remain unmarried, as I am.

American Standard Version

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

Commentary

### SUMMARY
In 1 Corinthians 7:8, the Apostle Paul offers direct counsel to the unmarried and widows within the Corinthian church, advocating for the spiritual benefit of remaining single, mirroring his own personal state. This verse underscores Paul's conviction that for some, celibacy is not merely a lesser alternative to marriage but a commendable and advantageous path, enabling focused devotion and service to the Lord.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is an integral part of Paul's extensive discourse on marriage, celibacy, and sexual ethics, which spans the entirety of [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Teaching on Marriage and Celibacy"). Paul is responding to specific questions (implied by "Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me" in [1 Corinthians 7:1](/1_corinthians/7-1 "1 Corinthians 7:1 - Paul's Response to Corinthian Questions")) from the Corinthian believers regarding various aspects of Christian life, particularly how their faith should inform their marital status and sexual conduct. His advice flows from a general principle that marriage is good and appropriate for most, yet he then pivots to commend singleness for those who are able to embrace it, setting the stage for his subsequent arguments about undivided devotion to the Lord found later in the chapter, such as in [1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion to the Lord").

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The city of Corinth was a bustling Roman port city renowned for its wealth, diverse population, and pervasive moral laxity, particularly sexual immorality. The temple of Aphrodite, with its cultic prostitution, was a prominent feature of the city's religious landscape. This environment posed significant challenges for early Christians striving to live a life of holiness. Paul's counsel in [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Teaching on Marriage and Celibacy") must be understood against this backdrop, where believers needed clear guidance on how to navigate societal pressures and maintain purity. Furthermore, Paul often operated with a sense of eschatological urgency, perceiving a "present distress" ([1 Corinthians 7:26](/1_corinthians/7-26 "1 Corinthians 7:26 - The Present Distress")) that made undivided devotion to the Lord particularly strategic for ministry and perseverance.

* **Key Themes:** The primary themes emerging from [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Teaching on Marriage and Celibacy") and to which this verse contributes significantly include the **Commendation of Singleness**. Paul explicitly states that it is "good" (Greek: _kalon_, meaning noble, excellent, or morally beautiful) for the unmarried and widows to remain in their current state, elevating singleness as a valid and honorable choice, not a lesser status. Another key theme is **Paul's Personal Example**, as he highlights his own celibacy with the phrase "even as I," presenting himself as a practical model of a life fully dedicated to God outside of marriage. This aligns with his earlier statement in [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - The Gift of Singleness") where he alludes to different spiritual gifts, implying singleness is one such gift. Finally, the broader context reveals the theme of **Freedom for Undivided Devotion**, as Paul argues that singleness can allow for greater focus on the Lord's service without the additional cares and distractions that can accompany marriage, as elaborated in [1 Corinthians 7:35](/1_corinthians/7-35 "1 Corinthians 7:35 - Undivided Devotion to the Lord").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **unmarried (Greek, _ágamos'_):** From G22, meaning "unmarried." This term broadly refers to those not currently in a marital union, encompassing virgins, divorcees, or those who have never married. Paul uses it as a comprehensive category for individuals without a spouse.
* **good (Greek, _kalós'_):** From G2570, properly meaning "beautiful," but chiefly (figuratively) "good" (literally or morally), "valuable or virtuous." Paul's use of _kalós_ here is a strong affirmation, indicating that remaining single is not merely permissible but is noble, excellent, and morally commendable in God's eyes, carrying inherent value and virtue.
* **abide (Greek, _ménō'_)::** From G3306, meaning "to stay (in a given place, state, relation or expectancy)." This word emphasizes the intentionality and stability of maintaining one's single status. It implies a settled decision to continue in that state, rather than merely a temporary condition.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"I say therefore to the unmarried and widows":** Paul, exercising his apostolic authority and pastoral care, directly addresses two specific groups within the Corinthian church: those who have never married or are divorced ("unmarried") and those whose spouses have died ("widows"). This direct address signals the particular relevance of his counsel to their unique circumstances. The inclusion of "therefore" (G1161, _dé_) links this advice to his preceding discussion on marriage, indicating a logical continuation of his thought.
* **"It is good for them":** This declarative statement conveys Paul's strong commendation. The Greek word _kalós_ signifies that this state is not just acceptable but is inherently noble, excellent, and beneficial for these individuals. It presents singleness not as a deficiency but as a viable and even preferable option for some, carrying spiritual advantages.
* **"if they abide even as I.":** This clause introduces a condition and a personal example. The "if" (G1437, _eán_) indicates that this "good" state is contingent upon their ability to remain single. Paul then offers himself ("even as I," G2504, _kagṓ_) as the living illustration of this commendable state, implying that his own celibacy allows him a particular freedom and focus in his service to the Lord. The phrase "abide" (G3306, _ménō_) underscores the idea of continuing or remaining in this single state.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse. The most prominent is **Apostolic Authority and Exhortation**, evident in his direct opening, "I say therefore," which conveys his authoritative pastoral counsel to the Corinthian believers. This is immediately followed by **Personal Example/Autobiographical Reference**, as he points to his own life with the phrase "even as I." This serves as a powerful testament to the viability and spiritual fruitfulness of a single life, lending credibility and practical illustration to his teaching. Furthermore, the verse contains a **Conditional Statement** ("if they abide"), which highlights that while singleness is good, it is good for those who are able to maintain it, implying a spiritual gift or disposition. Finally, there is an element of **Commendation and Affirmation** through the use of "It is good," which elevates singleness from a mere default status to a divinely affirmed and valuable choice.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
This verse profoundly shapes Christian theology regarding singleness, affirming it as a legitimate and honorable calling within the body of Christ, not merely a temporary state or a lesser alternative to marriage. Paul's counsel elevates celibacy as a path that can enable greater, undivided devotion to the Lord and His service, free from the inherent cares and distractions that accompany marital life. It challenges cultural norms, both ancient and modern, that often implicitly or explicitly devalue singleness, asserting its spiritual dignity and potential for profound kingdom impact. Theologically, it underscores the diversity of gifts and callings within the church, where every state, consecrated to God, can be a means of glorifying Him and advancing His purposes.

* [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - The Gift of Singleness")
* [1 Corinthians 7:32-35](/1_corinthians/7-32-35 "1 Corinthians 7:32-35 - Undivided Devotion to the Lord")
* [Matthew 19:10-12](/matthew/19-10-12 "Matthew 19:10-12 - Jesus on Eunuchs for the Kingdom")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 7:8 offers profound encouragement and validation for single individuals and widows within the Christian community today. It affirms that singleness is not merely a temporary waiting period or a "second-best" option, but can be a divinely appointed and purposeful path, allowing for focused ministry, deeper spiritual growth, and a unique capacity for service. It reminds believers that one's marital status does not define their worth, their completeness, or their potential for impacting God's kingdom. Instead, the emphasis is on living out one's calling with wholehearted devotion to the Lord, whether one is married or single. For the church, this verse calls for a greater appreciation and intentional support for single members, recognizing their unique contributions and avoiding any societal or ecclesiastical pressures that might imply singleness is a deficiency rather than a potentially powerful means of spiritual flourishing and ministry.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does Paul's commendation of singleness challenge prevailing cultural or personal assumptions about marriage and family?**
* **If singleness is a "good" state, what specific spiritual advantages or opportunities might it offer for deeper devotion and service to God?**
* **How can the church better affirm and empower single individuals and widows to live out their calling with purpose and joy?**

### FAQ
**Does Paul's advice mean singleness is superior to marriage?**

Answer: Not necessarily. While Paul states it is "good" for the unmarried and widows to remain as he is, he does not universally declare singleness superior to marriage. In [1 Corinthians 7:2](/1_corinthians/7-2 "1 Corinthians 7:2 - The Purpose of Marriage"), he explicitly states that "to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband," indicating that marriage is a valid and necessary institution for many. Paul's emphasis in [1 Corinthians 7](/1_corinthians/7 "1 Corinthians 7 - Paul's Teaching on Marriage and Celibacy") is on the spiritual advantages that *can* accompany singleness, particularly the ability to offer 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")). He recognizes that both marriage and singleness are gifts from God, each with its own unique benefits and challenges, as he states in [1 Corinthians 7:7](/1_corinthians/7-7 "1 Corinthians 7:7 - The Gift of Singleness"). The "goodness" of singleness is conditional on one's ability to "abide" in that state, suggesting it is a specific calling or gift for some, not a universal mandate.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While 1 Corinthians 7:8 directly addresses the practicalities of marital status for believers, its deepest fulfillment is found in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Jesus Himself lived a life of perfect celibacy, demonstrating the ultimate model of undivided devotion to the Father's will and the advancement of His kingdom. His singleness was not a lack, but a complete consecration, allowing Him to fulfill His mission without earthly distractions, culminating in His atoning sacrifice. Furthermore, Jesus's teaching on "eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven" in [Matthew 19:10-12](/matthew/19-10-12 "Matthew 19:10-12 - Jesus on Eunuchs for the Kingdom") provides a profound theological basis for celibacy, linking it directly to radical discipleship and kingdom priorities. Ultimately, in Christ, our identity and worth are not defined by our marital status but by our union with Him. Whether married or single, the Christian life is meant to be a reflection of Christ's self-giving love and singular focus on God's glory, anticipating the eschatological reality where, in the resurrection, "they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven" ([Matthew 22:30](/matthew/22-30 "Matthew 22:30 - No Marriage in the Resurrection")). Thus, Paul's counsel points believers to a life lived for Christ, a life that finds its ultimate purpose and satisfaction in Him, regardless of earthly circumstances.

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

1 Corinthians 7:32

But I would have you without carefulness. He that is unmarried careth for the things that belong to the Lord, how he may please the Lord:

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 7:35

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.

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 7:27

Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.

1 Corinthians 7:7

For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.

1 Corinthians 7:1

¶ Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: [It is] good for a man not to touch a woman.