It Starts Small

 ⁶ I say this as a concession, not as a command. ⁷ I wish that all people were as I am. But each has his own gift from God, one person has this gift, another has that.

1 Corinthians 7:6-8

There are two passages in the New Testament. These passages have been used to justify celibacy as a preferred option. They apply either for Christians in general or for leaders in the church.

¹⁰ His disciples said to him, “If the relationship of a man with his wife is like this, it’s better not to marry.”

¹¹ He responded, “Not everyone can accept this saying, but only those to whom it has been given. ¹² For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb, there are eunuchs who were made by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves that way because of the kingdom of heaven. The one who is able to accept it should accept it.”

Matthew 19:10-12

In Matthew, Jesus implies that living life without the risk of divorce is a teaching to follow. This means not marrying for anyone who can accept it. In 1 Corinthians 7:6-8 and 7:32-35, Paul offers his opinion. He suggests that a celibate life is less encumbered. Therefore, it is to be preferred for those who aim at “unhindered devotion to the Lord” (1 Corinthians 7:35).

Three observations help to put Paul’s words on the matter of celibacy in context. Three key points can help us understand Paul’s perspective on celibacy. Firstly, we know from 1 Corinthians 7:1 that the Corinthians have asked Paul questions about sex and marriage. They bring up the topic and he responds.

In this chapter of 1 Corinthians, Paul discusses various questions. These questions include topics like sex, marriage, divorce, and celibacy. He addresses them in an ad hoc way. For instance, he says about whether virgins should marry or stay unmarried, “I have no command of the Lord.” He then comments on his own “as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy” (1 Corinthians 7:25). This chapter is not central to Paul’s message to the Corinthians. However, it is still important.

Twice Paul talks about the value of being unmarried. 1 Corinthians 7:7 and 1 Corinthians 7:35 mention this. In both places, he immediately adds that he does not require such a lifestyle of anyone. 

I think it is very important to not have one preference over another. Meaning, marriage is a beautiful gift of God that is a display of Him. Celibacy is a gift of God and also displays Him. Not one station s more important or blessed over the other.

Often times, churches forget the singles crowd in church. They offer up programs for the married, celebrate births and childhood milestone, seminars for parents and retreats for couples. These are beautiful ministries for the family, but what about the singles. Being single should also be seen just as important as marriage. We need to also minister to the single crowd as much as we minister to the families.

Both are equally blessed by the Lord!

© Kimberlee Smith 2025 http://www.itstartssmall.com All rights reserved.