Paul’s counsel in 1 Corinthians 7 keeps several truths together: God gives different gifts, marriage is good, unmarried life offers opportunities for devotion, and faithfulness includes the obligations already entrusted to a person. These truths help you serve God now and entrust your future to him.
Give your present life to God
Begin with the life you can offer to the Lord today. In 1 Corinthians 7:17–24, Paul tells believers to walk faithfully in the circumstances in which God called them. He explains that keeping God’s commandments matters more than being circumcised or uncircumcised, and that both slave and free belong to the Lord. These examples place obedience and belonging to Christ ahead of acquiring a new social identity. He ends with the words “therein abide with God” (verse 24). Fellowship with God and faithful conduct are possible within your present circumstances. You do not have to become married before prayer, holiness, love, and useful service can fill your life.
This counsel concerns living with God where his call has reached you. It does not make every circumstance permanent: Paul permits marriage in 1 Corinthians 7:28, after commending remaining unmarried in verse 8. His teaching gives you reason to be faithful now while considering future decisions honestly. Give the Lord your attention, keep the responsibilities you already have, and receive his instruction for what lies ahead.
Your place among God’s people rests on Christ. Ephesians 2:11–22 describes Gentiles once far from God being brought near through Christ’s blood, reconciled with Jewish believers in one body, and given access to the Father through one Spirit. They are now members of God’s household, built together with Christ as the cornerstone. The passage addresses that reconciliation, and its basis also explains an unmarried believer’s belonging: Christ brings you into this shared life. Receive the worship, learning, care, and responsibilities that come with it.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Honor marriage and receive the good of unmarried devotion
Receive marriage as a good gift of God. Genesis 2:18–25 describes the man’s lack of a corresponding helper, God’s creation of the woman, the man’s recognition of her as his own flesh and bone, and their union as husband and wife. Jesus appeals to this account in Matthew 19:4–6 when teaching that God joins the two in one flesh. These passages explain why marriage deserves honor. In the same conversation, however, Jesus also makes room for a faithful life without marriage.
After Jesus’ teaching about divorce, the disciples conclude that it may be better not to marry. In Matthew 19:10–12, Jesus says that receiving this saying is given to some, then names eunuchs from birth, those made so by others, and those who become eunuchs for the kingdom’s sake. The final description is best understood as willingly foregoing marriage and sexual relations for the kingdom, rather than physically injuring oneself. Jesus ends by inviting the person able to receive this to receive it. His words give kingdom purpose to celibacy without making it a requirement for every disciple.
Paul likewise holds different responsibilities together. First Corinthians 7:1–5 answers the Corinthians’ letter by affirming the mutual sexual responsibilities of husband and wife; even a temporary period of abstinence requires their agreement. Then verses 7–9 commend Paul’s unmarried way of life while recognizing that each person has his own gift from God. Those who lack self-control are told to marry. Paul values unmarried devotion, and he recognizes marriage as a faithful course. His personal preference does not become a command that everyone copy his condition.
Give thanks for the good God enables in different lives. First Timothy 4:1–5 identifies forbidding marriage as part of false teaching and grounds grateful reception in the goodness of God’s creation. First Corinthians 9:3–5 also names other apostles and Cephas when defending the right to travel with a believing wife. Unmarried service and faithful married service both belong within the church. You can value your own opportunities while honoring the responsibilities and gifts of others.
Further study: Bruce W. Winter · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Use your freedom to attend to the Lord
Take seriously the opportunity Paul sees in unmarried life. In 1 Corinthians 7:32–35, he describes an unmarried man concerned with pleasing the Lord and an unmarried woman concerned with being holy in body and spirit. Married people also have the real responsibility of caring for a spouse. Paul wants his readers to attend to the Lord without distraction. His comparison invites you to direct the freedom you have toward prayer, learning, obedience, and service.
Paul gives reasons for this counsel. In 1 Corinthians 7:25–28, he distinguishes his trustworthy judgment concerning virgins from a command of the Lord, names the “present distress,” and says he wishes to spare them the troubles marriage would bring. The distress is not identified precisely in the chapter. Paul is addressing actual circumstances, while also looking toward the passing of the present world in verses 29–31. His preference deserves attention for the reasons he states; the same paragraph expressly says that marrying is not sin.
The passing world also changes how all believers hold their present relationships and possessions. In 1 Corinthians 7:29–31, Paul tells those with wives to live as though they had none, and buyers as though they did not possess, alongside similar instructions about sorrow, joy, and using the world. His reason is that its present form is passing away. His earlier commands about spouses’ mutual care in verses 3–5 and preserving marriage in verses 10–13 still stand. These commitments continue, with the Lord’s coming purposes governing their place in life. A relationship, possession, or change in circumstances cannot be made life’s final purpose.
Make the opportunity real in the responsibilities you actually have. First Corinthians 7:35 states that Paul seeks the readers’ benefit and devoted service, not a snare that traps them. His description of unmarried concerns does not make devotion automatic or say that an unmarried person has no dependents, work, or needs. Give God steady attention within those responsibilities. Paul can call remaining unmarried better in verse 38 and happier for the widow in verse 40 because of the advantages he has explained, while continuing to call marriage good. Consider those advantages with gratitude and use them for his purposes.
Further study: Melanie A. Howard · Eric C. Redmond · Biblical Studies Press
Honor the Lord in your body and desires
Treat your body as belonging to Christ. First Corinthians 6:12–20 challenges the idea that bodily desires can simply govern conduct: the body is for the Lord, God will raise it, and believers’ bodies are members of Christ. Paul makes the issue concrete by rejecting sexual union with a prostitute, explaining that such union makes the two one flesh. He calls believers to flee fornication, or sexual immorality, because they belong to Christ and the Holy Spirit dwells in them. Having been bought with a price, they are to glorify God in their bodies. Sexual abstinence while unmarried follows from this bodily allegiance, together with the placement of sexual relations within marriage in 1 Corinthians 7:2–5. Hebrews 13:4 likewise honors marriage and its undefiled bed while warning that God judges sexual immorality and adultery.
Pursue holiness with concern for the other person’s good. First Thessalonians 4:1–8 urges believers to please God, abstain from fornication, and conduct themselves in holiness and honor rather than uncontrolled lust. Verse 6 also forbids wronging or defrauding another in this matter. Paul’s reasons are that God calls his people to holiness, judges wrongdoing, and gives his Holy Spirit. An unmarried person’s desires belong under that same call. Faithful affection includes restraint, honesty, and respect for another person before God.
Give attention to the heart as well as outward conduct. In Matthew 5:27–30, Jesus extends the command against adultery to looking at a woman in order to lust after her. Having located the wrongdoing in the heart, he uses severe language about removing an offending eye or hand to press the seriousness of turning from sin. Bodily injury cannot provide the heart’s obedience that he requires. Respond by refusing to cultivate the desire Jesus condemns and by relinquishing what draws you into it. Purity concerns how you regard another person, not merely whether a forbidden act has occurred.
Seek strength through the life God gives and the company of his people. Galatians 5:16–25 calls believers to walk in the Spirit, names sexual immorality among the works of the flesh, and includes temperance—self-control—among the Spirit’s fruit. The same fruit includes love, joy, patience, and gentleness. In 2 Timothy 2:22, Timothy is told to flee youthful desires and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with those who call on the Lord from a pure heart. His ministry setting also calls for patient, gentle conduct. Turn away from sin while actively growing in these good qualities with other believers.
When you have sinned, return to God truthfully. First Corinthians 6:9–11 reminds the church that people with sinful histories have been washed, sanctified, and justified in Christ. First John 1:5–2:2 calls believers to walk in the light, confess their sins, and rely on Jesus Christ, the righteous advocate. Holiness grows through honest repentance and received mercy. A sinful past does not make faithful unmarried life unavailable; receive forgiveness and continue in the obedience God now teaches.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Share in the love and care of God’s household
Build relationships in which you both give and receive care. In Mark 3:31–35, when Jesus is told that his mother and brothers are outside, he looks at those around him and identifies those who do God’s will as his brother, sister, and mother. This is a real bond of discipleship. Your life with God’s people can include affection, loyalty, learning, and responsibility that do not depend on having a spouse.
First Corinthians 12:12–27 explains how that shared life works. The foot and ear belong to the body even though they are different from the hand and eye, and the eye cannot tell the hand that it has no need of it. God has arranged the members so that they care for one another, suffer together, and rejoice together. These instructions address the whole church, including unmarried believers. Take part as someone whose contribution matters and whose needs also deserve attention. The community’s care is mutual.
Give this shared life a continuing place in your days. Hebrews 10:19–25 begins with access to God through Jesus’ blood and priesthood, then calls believers to draw near, hold their hope firmly, and consider how to encourage one another toward love and good works. Gathering together serves that perseverance. Participate in the church’s worship and encouragement, and let others know you well enough to share in that responsibility. You also need the strengthening you can offer others.
Give that belonging practical expression. Romans 12:9–16 calls for sincere love, brotherly affection, honor, prayer, sharing with believers in need, hospitality, and joining others in joy and sorrow. First Timothy 5:1–2 directs Timothy to treat older and younger people with the regard due fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters, including purity toward younger women. His particular pastoral charge shows the character of relationships in God’s household. Regard people with this honor and seek friendships in which faithful love can become dependable.
Attend also to existing family ties and the need for companionship. First Timothy 5:3–8, 16 requires relatives to support dependent widows, so that the church can help those without such support. Being unmarried can include substantial care for relatives. Ecclesiastes 4:7–12 first describes a person laboring endlessly with no one to share the good, then explains how companions help one another work, rise after a fall, keep warm, and withstand danger. Its wisdom values shared life; it does not identify every helpful companionship as marriage. Receive help, offer it, and cultivate relationships that sustain faithful living.
Use the gifts and opportunities God has given you
Offer what God has entrusted to you for the good of others. Romans 12:1–8 begins with God’s mercies, calls believers to present their bodies in his service, and describes different gifts within one body. Teaching, encouraging, giving, leading, and showing mercy each have their proper work. The instruction is to exercise the gift faithfully. An unmarried believer has a place in that shared service now; marriage is not a preliminary qualification for belonging to the body.
Serve in dependence on God’s strength. First Peter 4:7–11 joins watchful prayer, earnest love, hospitality, and the use of gifts as stewardship of God’s grace. It directs the speaker toward God’s words and the servant toward the strength God supplies, so that God is glorified through Jesus Christ. This gives service both its purpose and its manner. Use your abilities willingly, with attention to actual needs and reliance on the Lord.
Scripture records unmarried people doing meaningful work among God’s people. Luke 2:36–38 describes Anna as a widow who served God with fasting and prayer; when she encountered the child Jesus, she gave thanks and spoke of him to those awaiting Jerusalem’s redemption. Her witness belongs beside Simeon’s testimony in the temple. Acts 21:8–9 also names Philip’s four virgin daughters who prophesied, within the account of Paul’s stay in Philip’s household. These passages show actual worship, witness, and gifted service. They do not require every unmarried believer to repeat Anna’s temple life or receive the daughters’ particular gift.
Ordinary responsibilities also belong to devoted service. First Thessalonians 4:9–12 joins increasing brotherly love with living quietly, attending to one’s own affairs, and working with one’s hands, so that conduct is honorable before outsiders and needs are met. Work, care for family, and practical help can therefore express your faithfulness alongside prayer and ministry. Let the needs, abilities, and duties actually before you guide your service, while remembering the mutual care Paul requires in 1 Corinthians 12:25–26.
Consider marriage with honesty and faithfulness
Consider the possibility of marriage without despising the life you have. In 1 Corinthians 7:8–9, Paul calls remaining as he is good, then tells those who do not exercise self-control to marry, because marriage is better than burning with desire. The counsel takes sexual desire and moral responsibility seriously. It gives a faithful direction to those for whom marriage is appropriate; it supplies neither a spouse nor a timetable. While unmarried, continue in the holiness required of every believer and take honest account of your desires and responsibilities.
Paul’s preference leaves room for a real decision. First Corinthians 7:36–38 describes a situation in which marriage may proceed without sin and one in which a settled decision to remain unmarried does well. The wording has been understood either of a father or guardian considering a young woman’s marriage, or of an engaged man considering his own marriage. Across these readings, Paul permits marriage and commends remaining unmarried where there is freedom to do so. The passage gives reasons for faithful judgment; it does not prescribe a universal procedure for forming relationships.
Receive the particular instructions that apply to your circumstances. First Corinthians 7:39–40 says that a widow is free to marry whom she wishes, only in the Lord: her choice is to be a fellow believer. Paul still judges her remaining unmarried happier, holding choice and counsel together. First Timothy 5:11–15 addresses a different pastoral situation within the discussion of enrolling and supporting widows. It describes younger widows becoming idle, going from house to house with intrusive talk, and turning away from faithfulness to Christ. Paul therefore urges marriage, raising children, and household responsibilities. That stated concern explains his counsel to this group; it is not an order that every unmarried woman must marry.
A previous marriage also requires its own careful attention. First Corinthians 7:10–11 tells a separated wife to remain unmarried or be reconciled, and verses 12–16 address a believer married to an unbeliever: the believer is to preserve a willing marriage, while a departing unbeliever may be allowed to leave. Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 19:3–9 also treats the marriage bond seriously. These passages mean that the chapter’s permissions cannot be applied as though every unmarried person had the same history and obligations. Paul says the deserted believer is not under bondage in 1 Corinthians 7:15; whether that freedom permits remarriage requires careful consideration alongside the explicit instruction in verses 10–11. Whatever your circumstances, the present calls to holiness, love, and faithful service remain clear.
Further study: Bruce W. Winter · Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press · Eric C. Redmond
Bring your longings to God and trust his lasting promise
Bring both gratitude and unmet longing before God. Psalm 25:4–11 asks the Lord to teach his ways and forgive sin. In verses 16–21, the speaker asks God to turn toward him in affliction, speaking distress plainly while trust and integrity remain part of the prayer. The psalm does not identify his marital situation; it gives you words for dependence when loneliness or disappointment weighs on you. Philippians 4:6–9 likewise invites requests with thanksgiving and promises God’s guarding peace, while directing attention toward truthful thought and practiced obedience. You can speak honestly to God and continue faithfully with him.
Contentment is something to learn through the Lord’s strength. In Philippians 4:10–20, Paul thanks the church for its help and explains that he has learned to live with both abundance and need. His confidence in Christ’s strengthening in verse 13 concerns these changing conditions. It is compatible with receiving the church’s generous care. Apply that same dependence to unmarried life: give thanks, bring your needs, receive help, and continue in what is good. James 4:13–17 also teaches that future plans depend on the Lord’s will, while known good is to be done now. Hope for marriage may be entrusted to God without making a promised outcome of it.
God’s enduring regard reaches beyond having biological descendants. Isaiah 56:1–8 announces coming salvation and calls for justice and covenant faithfulness. The eunuch who fears being a dry tree, unable to continue his family through children, is promised a place and a name in God’s house better than sons and daughters, an everlasting name that will not be cut off. The promise specifically concerns eunuchs who keep God’s covenant and choose what pleases him, alongside the welcome of faithful foreigners. It is not a promise that every unmarried person will later have a family. Its strength is that God grants lasting belonging and honor where a person fears having no future through descendants.
Let resurrection shape your measure of a full life. In Matthew 22:23–33, the Sadducees try to make resurrection seem impossible through a woman’s successive marriages to seven brothers. Jesus answers that they have misunderstood Scripture and God’s power: those raised do not marry, and God is the God of the living. He does not describe the coming life as deficient because marriage is absent. First Corinthians 15:50–58 then joins victory over death through Christ to steadfast work in the Lord, because that labor is not in vain. Your faithful life has lasting significance in him. Give yourself to the love, purity, worship, and service before you, trusting the future to the God who raises the dead.
Further study: Richard W. Nysse
Read the passages
Scripture in context
40 contextual selections for this subject, including the passages cited above and further related reading. Every selected range is reproduced in full from the KJV. Context notes identify the setting and kind of evidence.
Creation narrative 1 selections
Genesis 2:18–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: The man’s lack of a corresponding helper leads to the woman’s creation and the one-flesh marriage statement.
2:18 And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
2:19 And out of the ground the LORD God formed every beast of the field, and every fowl of the air; and brought them unto Adam to see what he would call them: and whatsoever Adam called every living creature, that was the name thereof.
2:20 And Adam gave names to all cattle, and to the fowl of the air, and to every beast of the field; but for Adam there was not found an help meet for him.
2:21 And the LORD God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and he took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof;
2:22 And the rib, which the LORD God had taken from man, made he a woman, and brought her unto the man.
2:23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
2:24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
2:25 And they were both naked, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.
Covenant law 1 selections
Deuteronomy 23:1–8 KJV
Context: Israel’s assembly legislation distinguishes bodily condition, descent and peoples within its covenant setting.
23:1 He that is wounded in the stones, or hath his privy member cut off, shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD.
23:2 A bastard shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to his tenth generation shall he not enter into the congregation of the LORD.
23:3 An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the LORD for ever:
23:4 Because they met you not with bread and with water in the way, when ye came forth out of Egypt; and because they hired against thee Balaam the son of Beor of Pethor of Mesopotamia, to curse thee.
23:5 Nevertheless the LORD thy God would not hearken unto Balaam; but the LORD thy God turned the curse into a blessing unto thee, because the LORD thy God loved thee.
23:6 Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days for ever.
23:7 Thou shalt not abhor an Edomite; for he is thy brother: thou shalt not abhor an Egyptian; because thou wast a stranger in his land.
23:8 The children that are begotten of them shall enter into the congregation of the LORD in their third generation.
Prayer poetry 1 selections
Psalms 25:1–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: The complete prayer asks for guidance, pardon and deliverance, names affliction and enemies, and ends with Israel’s redemption.
25:1 Unto thee, O LORD, do I lift up my soul.
25:2 O my God, I trust in thee: let me not be ashamed, let not mine enemies triumph over me.
25:3 Yea, let none that wait on thee be ashamed: let them be ashamed which transgress without cause.
25:4 Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
25:5 Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
25:6 Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
25:7 Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake, O LORD.
25:8 Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.
25:9 The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
25:10 All the paths of the LORD are mercy and truth unto such as keep his covenant and his testimonies.
25:11 For thy name’s sake, O LORD, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.
25:12 What man is he that feareth the LORD? him shall he teach in the way that he shall choose.
25:13 His soul shall dwell at ease; and his seed shall inherit the earth.
25:14 The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant.
25:15 Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for he shall pluck my feet out of the net.
25:16 Turn thee unto me, and have mercy upon me; for I am desolate and afflicted.
25:17 The troubles of my heart are enlarged: O bring thou me out of my distresses.
25:18 Look upon mine affliction and my pain; and forgive all my sins.
25:19 Consider mine enemies; for they are many; and they hate me with cruel hatred.
25:20 O keep my soul, and deliver me: let me not be ashamed; for I put my trust in thee.
25:21 Let integrity and uprightness preserve me; for I wait on thee.
25:22 Redeem Israel, O God, out of all his troubles.
Wisdom reflection 1 selections
Prophetic promise and exhortation 1 selections
Isaiah 56:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: Coming salvation calls for justice and covenant loyalty; eunuchs and foreigners receive assurance of welcome and lasting recognition.
56:1 Thus saith the LORD, Keep ye judgment, and do justice: for my salvation is near to come, and my righteousness to be revealed.
56:2 Blessed is the man that doeth this, and the son of man that layeth hold on it; that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and keepeth his hand from doing any evil.
56:3 Neither let the son of the stranger, that hath joined himself to the LORD, speak, saying, The LORD hath utterly separated me from his people: neither let the eunuch say, Behold, I am a dry tree.
56:4 For thus saith the LORD unto the eunuchs that keep my sabbaths, and choose the things that please me, and take hold of my covenant;
56:5 Even unto them will I give in mine house and within my walls a place and a name better than of sons and of daughters: I will give them an everlasting name, that shall not be cut off.
56:6 Also the sons of the stranger, that join themselves to the LORD, to serve him, and to love the name of the LORD, to be his servants, every one that keepeth the sabbath from polluting it, and taketh hold of my covenant;
56:7 Even them will I bring to my holy mountain, and make them joyful in my house of prayer: their burnt offerings and their sacrifices shall be accepted upon mine altar; for mine house shall be called an house of prayer for all people.
56:8 The Lord GOD which gathereth the outcasts of Israel saith, Yet will I gather others to him, beside those that are gathered unto him.
Particular prophetic command 1 selections
Jeremiah 16:1–13 KJV
Context: Jeremiah is specifically forbidden marriage and children in a place facing covenant judgment; mourning and feasting are also restricted.
16:1 The word of the LORD came also unto me, saying,
16:2 Thou shalt not take thee a wife, neither shalt thou have sons or daughters in this place.
16:3 For thus saith the LORD concerning the sons and concerning the daughters that are born in this place, and concerning their mothers that bare them, and concerning their fathers that begat them in this land;
16:4 They shall die of grievous deaths; they shall not be lamented; neither shall they be buried; but they shall be as dung upon the face of the earth: and they shall be consumed by the sword, and by famine; and their carcases shall be meat for the fowls of heaven, and for the beasts of the earth.
16:5 For thus saith the LORD, Enter not into the house of mourning, neither go to lament nor bemoan them: for I have taken away my peace from this people, saith the LORD, even lovingkindness and mercies.
16:6 Both the great and the small shall die in this land: they shall not be buried, neither shall men lament for them, nor cut themselves, nor make themselves bald for them:
16:7 Neither shall men tear themselves for them in mourning, to comfort them for the dead; neither shall men give them the cup of consolation to drink for their father or for their mother.
16:8 Thou shalt not also go into the house of feasting, to sit with them to eat and to drink.
16:9 For thus saith the LORD of hosts, the God of Israel; Behold, I will cause to cease out of this place in your eyes, and in your days, the voice of mirth, and the voice of gladness, the voice of the bridegroom, and the voice of the bride.
16:10 And it shall come to pass, when thou shalt shew this people all these words, and they shall say unto thee, Wherefore hath the LORD pronounced all this great evil against us? or what is our iniquity? or what is our sin that we have committed against the LORD our God?
16:11 Then shalt thou say unto them, Because your fathers have forsaken me, saith the LORD, and have walked after other gods, and have served them, and have worshipped them, and have forsaken me, and have not kept my law;
16:12 And ye have done worse than your fathers; for, behold, ye walk every one after the imagination of his evil heart, that they may not hearken unto me:
16:13 Therefore will I cast you out of this land into a land that ye know not, neither ye nor your fathers; and there shall ye serve other gods day and night; where I will not shew you favour.
Jesus’ teaching 1 selections
Matthew 5:27–30 KJV · In this guide
Context: Within the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses adultery in the heart and uses severe bodily imagery for decisive resistance to sin.
5:27 Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
5:29 And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
5:30 And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into hell.
Gospel dialogue and teaching 1 selections
Matthew 19:3–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: A question about divorce leads Jesus to creation and the marriage bond; the disciples’ response leads to the eunuch saying.
19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?
19:4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,
19:5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?
19:6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
19:7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?
19:8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.
19:9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.
19:10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
19:11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.
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.
Gospel controversy and teaching 1 selections
Matthew 22:23–33 KJV · In this guide
Context: Sadducees challenge resurrection with successive levirate marriages; Jesus answers from God’s power and the revelation to Moses.
22:23 The same day came to him the Sadducees, which say that there is no resurrection, and asked him,
22:24 Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
22:25 Now there were with us seven brethren: and the first, when he had married a wife, deceased, and, having no issue, left his wife unto his brother:
22:26 Likewise the second also, and the third, unto the seventh.
22:27 And last of all the woman died also.
22:28 Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be of the seven? for they all had her.
22:29 Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
22:30 For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.
22:31 But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying,
22:32 I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
22:33 And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished at his doctrine.
Gospel narrative and teaching 1 selections
Mark 3:31–35 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus responds to the arrival of his mother and brothers by identifying those doing God’s will as his family.
3:31 There came then his brethren and his mother, and, standing without, sent unto him, calling him.
3:32 And the multitude sat about him, and they said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.
3:33 And he answered them, saying, Who is my mother, or my brethren?
3:34 And he looked round about on them which sat about him, and said, Behold my mother and my brethren!
3:35 For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother.
Gospel infancy narrative 1 selections
Luke 2:22–40 KJV · In this guide
Context: Jesus’ presentation at the temple includes Simeon’s and Anna’s testimony, then the family’s return and the child’s growth.
2:22 And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
2:23 (As it is written in the law of the Lord, Every male that openeth the womb shall be called holy to the Lord;)
2:24 And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons.
2:25 And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
2:26 And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord’s Christ.
2:27 And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the custom of the law,
2:28 Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and said,
2:29 Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy word:
2:30 For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
2:31 Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people;
2:32 A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy people Israel.
2:33 And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things which were spoken of him.
2:34 And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother, Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against;
2:35 (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
2:36 And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity;
2:37 And she was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and prayers night and day.
2:38 And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto the Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemption in Jerusalem.
2:39 And when they had performed all things according to the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own city Nazareth.
2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled with wisdom: and the grace of God was upon him.
Mission narrative 2 selections
Acts 8:26–40 KJV
Context: Philip is directed to an Ethiopian eunuch reading Isaiah; Jesus is proclaimed, baptism follows and the traveler rejoices.
8:26 And the angel of the Lord spake unto Philip, saying, Arise, and go toward the south unto the way that goeth down from Jerusalem unto Gaza, which is desert.
8:27 And he arose and went: and, behold, a man of Ethiopia, an eunuch of great authority under Candace queen of the Ethiopians, who had the charge of all her treasure, and had come to Jerusalem for to worship,
8:28 Was returning, and sitting in his chariot read Esaias the prophet.
8:29 Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot.
8:30 And Philip ran thither to him, and heard him read the prophet Esaias, and said, Understandest thou what thou readest?
8:31 And he said, How can I, except some man should guide me? And he desired Philip that he would come up and sit with him.
8:32 The place of the scripture which he read was this, He was led as a sheep to the slaughter; and like a lamb dumb before his shearer, so opened he not his mouth:
8:33 In his humiliation his judgment was taken away: and who shall declare his generation? for his life is taken from the earth.
8:34 And the eunuch answered Philip, and said, I pray thee, of whom speaketh the prophet this? of himself, or of some other man?
8:35 Then Philip opened his mouth, and began at the same scripture, and preached unto him Jesus.
8:36 And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized?
8:37 And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.
8:38 And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.
8:39 And when they were come up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord caught away Philip, that the eunuch saw him no more: and he went on his way rejoicing.
8:40 But Philip was found at Azotus: and passing through he preached in all the cities, till he came to Cæsarea.
Acts 21:7–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s journey includes Philip’s household, his four virgin daughters who prophesy, Agabus’s warning and the company’s response.
21:7 And when we had finished our course from Tyre, we came to Ptolemais, and saluted the brethren, and abode with them one day.
21:8 And the next day we that were of Paul’s company departed, and came unto Cæsarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the evangelist, which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
21:9 And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy.
21:10 And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judæa a certain prophet, named Agabus.
21:11 And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owneth this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.
21:12 And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem.
21:13 Then Paul answered, What mean ye to weep and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.
21:14 And when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, The will of the Lord be done.
Apostolic exhortation 8 selections
Romans 12:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s mercies ground bodily service, renewed judgment, humility and varied gifts in one body.
12:1 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
12:2 And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
12:3 For I say, through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.
12:4 For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:
12:5 So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.
12:6 Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith;
12:7 Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching;
12:8 Or he that exhorteth, on exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.
Romans 12:9–21 KJV · In this guide
Context: After differing gifts, Paul describes sincere love, hospitality, solidarity, peace and doing good even to enemies.
12:9 Let love be without dissimulation. Abhor that which is evil; cleave to that which is good.
12:10 Be kindly affectioned one to another with brotherly love; in honour preferring one another;
12:11 Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;
12:12 Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer;
12:13 Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.
12:14 Bless them which persecute you: bless, and curse not.
12:15 Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.
12:16 Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.
12:17 Recompense to no man evil for evil. Provide things honest in the sight of all men.
12:18 If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men.
12:19 Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengeance is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.
12:20 Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head.
12:21 Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.
Galatians 5:13–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Freedom for loving service leads to walking by the Spirit, contrasting works of flesh and fruit of the Spirit.
5:13 For, brethren, ye have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.
5:14 For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
5:15 But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another.
5:16 This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.
5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.
5:18 But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law.
5:19 Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness,
5:20 Idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies,
5:21 Envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God.
5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
5:23 Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
5:24 And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
5:25 If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
5:26 Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another.
Philippians 4:4–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Concluding exhortations connect joy, gentleness, requests, thanksgiving, peace, truthful thought and practiced obedience.
4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
4:5 Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.
4:6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
4:7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
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.
4:9 Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.
Hebrews 10:19–25 KJV · In this guide
Context: Access through Christ’s blood and priesthood leads to drawing near, holding hope, and assembling to encourage love and good works.
10:19 Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus,
10:20 By a new and living way, which he hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, his flesh;
10:21 And having an high priest over the house of God;
10:22 Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith, having our hearts sprinkled from an evil conscience, and our bodies washed with pure water.
10:23 Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;)
10:24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:
10:25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.
Hebrews 13:1–6 KJV · In this guide
Context: Brotherly love, hospitality, prisoners, marriage, contentment and confidence in God’s help form a connected set of exhortations.
13:1 Let brotherly love continue.
13:2 Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.
13:3 Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.
13:4 Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge.
13:5 Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.
13:6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.
James 4:13–17 KJV · In this guide
Context: Confident plans for trade and profit are corrected by life’s brevity, God’s will and responsibility for known good.
4:13 Go to now, ye that say, To day or to morrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain:
4:14 Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.
4:15 For that ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.
4:16 But now ye rejoice in your boastings: all such rejoicing is evil.
4:17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin.
1 Peter 4:7–11 KJV · In this guide
Context: The nearness of the end motivates sober prayer, earnest love, hospitality and stewardship of gifts through God’s strength.
4:7 But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.
4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins.
4:9 Use hospitality one to another without grudging.
4:10 As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God.
4:11 If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.
Apostolic instruction 6 selections
1 Corinthians 6:9–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: The warning about unrighteousness and reminder of cleansing lead into bodily allegiance, resurrection, sexual union, the Spirit’s indwelling and redemption.
6:9 Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind,
6:10 Nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.
6:11 And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
6:12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.
6:13 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.
6:14 And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power.
6:15 Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.
6:16 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.
6:17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.
6:18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.
6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?
6:20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
1 Corinthians 7:10–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul moves from those married to the particular case of believers married to unbelievers, retaining reconciliation, willing cohabitation, departure and peace.
7:10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband:
7:11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.
7:12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.
7:13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him.
7:14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.
7:15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.
7:16 For what knowest thou, O wife, whether thou shalt save thy husband? or how knowest thou, O man, whether thou shalt save thy wife?
1 Corinthians 7:17–24 KJV · In this guide
Context: Circumcision and slave/free examples develop faithful conduct in the circumstances of conversion; belonging to Christ controls the argument.
7:17 But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.
7:18 Is any man called being circumcised? let him not become uncircumcised. Is any called in uncircumcision? let him not be circumcised.
7:19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.
7:20 Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.
7:21 Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.
7:22 For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant.
7:23 Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
7:24 Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.
1 Thessalonians 4:1–8 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul urges growth in pleasing God and names abstinence, honor, restraint and the duty not to wrong another, grounding them in God’s call and Spirit.
4:1 Furthermore then we beseech you, brethren, and exhort you by the Lord Jesus, that as ye have received of us how ye ought to walk and to please God, so ye would abound more and more.
4:2 For ye know what commandments we gave you by the Lord Jesus.
4:3 For this is the will of God, even your sanctification, that ye should abstain from fornication:
4:4 That every one of you should know how to possess his vessel in sanctification and honour;
4:5 Not in the lust of concupiscence, even as the Gentiles which know not God:
4:6 That no man go beyond and defraud his brother in any matter: because that the Lord is the avenger of all such, as we also have forewarned you and testified.
4:7 For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness.
4:8 He therefore that despiseth, despiseth not man, but God, who hath also given unto us his holy Spirit.
1 Thessalonians 4:9–12 KJV · In this guide
Context: Growing love is joined to quiet, responsible work and honorable conduct toward outsiders.
4:9 But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another.
4:10 And indeed ye do it toward all the brethren which are in all Macedonia: but we beseech you, brethren, that ye increase more and more;
4:11 And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;
4:12 That ye may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that ye may have lack of nothing.
1 Timothy 4:1–5 KJV · In this guide
Context: A warning about departure from faith identifies forbidding marriage and food prohibitions, with grateful reception of God’s good creation.
4:1 Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;
4:2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;
4:3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth.
4:4 For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:
4:5 For it is sanctified by the word of God and prayer.
Apostolic instruction and counsel 1 selections
1 Corinthians 7:1–9 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul answers a letter about sexual relations, states reciprocal marital duties, permits temporary agreed abstinence, and addresses differing gifts, unmarried people and widows.
7:1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
7:2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.
7:3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.
7:4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.
7:5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.
7:6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
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.
7:8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
7:9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.
Apostolic judgment and exhortation 1 selections
1 Corinthians 7:25–35 KJV · In this guide
Context: Counsel concerning virgins gives present distress, trouble, the passing age, and undistracted service as reasons, while permitting marriage.
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.
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.
7:27 Art thou bound unto a wife? seek not to be loosed. Art thou loosed from a wife? seek not a wife.
7:28 But and if thou marry, thou hast not sinned; and if a virgin marry, she hath not sinned. Nevertheless such shall have trouble in the flesh: but I spare you.
7:29 But this I say, brethren, the time is short: it remaineth, that both they that have wives be as though they had none;
7:30 And they that weep, as though they wept not; and they that rejoice, as though they rejoiced not; and they that buy, as though they possessed not;
7:31 And they that use this world, as not abusing it: for the fashion of this world passeth away.
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:
7:33 But he that is married careth for the things that are of the world, how he may please his wife.
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.
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.
Apostolic counsel 1 selections
1 Corinthians 7:36–38 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul applies the preceding counsel to a decision concerning a virgin, with necessity, settled will, permitted marriage and comparative advantage.
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.
7:37 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.
7:38 So then he that giveth her in marriage doeth well; but he that giveth her not in marriage doeth better.
Apostolic instruction and judgment 1 selections
1 Corinthians 7:39–40 KJV · In this guide
Context: The closing instruction preserves the marriage bond during a husband’s life and a widow’s freedom to marry in the Lord, alongside Paul’s judgment.
Apostolic argument 1 selections
1 Corinthians 9:1–14 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul defends apostolic rights to support and a believing wife, giving examples and explaining his voluntary restraint.
9:1 Am I not an apostle? am I not free? have I not seen Jesus Christ our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?
9:2 If I be not an apostle unto others, yet doubtless I am to you: for the seal of mine apostleship are ye in the Lord.
9:3 Mine answer to them that do examine me is this,
9:4 Have we not power to eat and to drink?
9:5 Have we not power to lead about a sister, a wife, as well as other apostles, and as the brethren of the Lord, and Cephas?
9:6 Or I only and Barnabas, have not we power to forbear working?
9:7 Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? who planteth a vineyard, and eateth not of the fruit thereof? or who feedeth a flock, and eateth not of the milk of the flock?
9:8 Say I these things as a man? or saith not the law the same also?
9:9 For it is written in the law of Moses, Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen?
9:10 Or saith he it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written: that he that ploweth should plow in hope; and that he that thresheth in hope should be partaker of his hope.
9:11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?
9:12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ.
9:13 Do ye not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar?
9:14 Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Apostolic teaching 3 selections
1 Corinthians 12:12–31 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul explains one body with varied members, mutual need and honor, shared care, and different appointed gifts.
12:12 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ.
12:13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.
12:14 For the body is not one member, but many.
12:15 If the foot shall say, Because I am not the hand, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
12:16 And if the ear shall say, Because I am not the eye, I am not of the body; is it therefore not of the body?
12:17 If the whole body were an eye, where were the hearing? If the whole were hearing, where were the smelling?
12:18 But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him.
12:19 And if they were all one member, where were the body?
12:20 But now are they many members, yet but one body.
12:21 And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of thee: nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.
12:22 Nay, much more those members of the body, which seem to be more feeble, are necessary:
12:23 And those members of the body, which we think to be less honourable, upon these we bestow more abundant honour; and our uncomely parts have more abundant comeliness.
12:24 For our comely parts have no need: but God hath tempered the body together, having given more abundant honour to that part which lacked:
12:25 That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another.
12:26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.
12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.
12:28 And God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healings, helps, governments, diversities of tongues.
12:29 Are all apostles? are all prophets? are all teachers? are all workers of miracles?
12:30 Have all the gifts of healing? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?
12:31 But covet earnestly the best gifts: and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way.
Ephesians 2:11–22 KJV · In this guide
Context: Gentile estrangement gives way to Jewish–Gentile reconciliation through the cross, access to the Father, and one household built on Christ.
2:11 Wherefore remember, that ye being in time past Gentiles in the flesh, who are called Uncircumcision by that which is called the Circumcision in the flesh made by hands;
2:12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world:
2:13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.
2:14 For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us;
2:15 Having abolished in his flesh the enmity, even the law of commandments contained in ordinances; for to make in himself of twain one new man, so making peace;
2:16 And that he might reconcile both unto God in one body by the cross, having slain the enmity thereby:
2:17 And came and preached peace to you which were afar off, and to them that were nigh.
2:18 For through him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father.
2:19 Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellowcitizens with the saints, and of the household of God;
2:20 And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ himself being the chief corner stone;
2:21 In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord:
2:22 In whom ye also are builded together for an habitation of God through the Spirit.
1 John 1:5–2:2 KJV · In this guide
Context: God’s light frames truthful fellowship, confession, cleansing, and Christ’s advocacy when believers sin.
1:5 This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.
1:6 If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth:
1:7 But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin.
1:8 If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.
1:9 If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
1:10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make him a liar, and his word is not in us.
2:1 My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:
2:2 And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
Apostolic teaching and exhortation 1 selections
1 Corinthians 15:50–58 KJV · In this guide
Context: The resurrection argument culminates in transformation, victory over death through Christ, and steadfast work.
15:50 Now this I say, brethren, that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God; neither doth corruption inherit incorruption.
15:51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
15:52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
15:53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
15:54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
15:55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
15:56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
15:57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
15:58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.
Apostolic testimony and thanksgiving 1 selections
Philippians 4:10–20 KJV · In this guide
Context: Paul’s thanks for material support includes learned contentment through abundance and need, the church’s partnership and praise to God.
4:10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at the last your care of me hath flourished again; wherein ye were also careful, but ye lacked opportunity.
4:11 Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.
4:12 I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.
4:13 I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.
4:14 Notwithstanding ye have well done, that ye did communicate with my affliction.
4:15 Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.
4:16 For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
4:17 Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
4:18 But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God.
4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
4:20 Now unto God and our Father be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Ministry instruction 2 selections
1 Timothy 5:1–2 KJV · In this guide
2 Timothy 2:14–26 KJV · In this guide
Context: Timothy’s teaching charge contrasts destructive controversy with approved work, honorable service, shared pursuit of virtue and gentle correction.
2:14 Of these things put them in remembrance, charging them before the Lord that they strive not about words to no profit, but to the subverting of the hearers.
2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.
2:16 But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
2:17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus;
2:18 Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; and overthrow the faith of some.
2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
2:20 But in a great house there are not only vessels of gold and of silver, but also of wood and of earth; and some to honour, and some to dishonour.
2:21 If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.
2:22 Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart.
2:23 But foolish and unlearned questions avoid, knowing that they do gender strifes.
2:24 And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
2:25 In meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth;
2:26 And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will.
Apostolic instruction for church care 1 selections
1 Timothy 5:3–16 KJV · In this guide
Context: The full widow-care unit distinguishes family provision, destitution, enrollment qualifications, younger widows and church support.
5:3 Honour widows that are widows indeed.
5:4 But if any widow have children or nephews, let them learn first to shew piety at home, and to requite their parents: for that is good and acceptable before God.
5:5 Now she that is a widow indeed, and desolate, trusteth in God, and continueth in supplications and prayers night and day.
5:6 But she that liveth in pleasure is dead while she liveth.
5:7 And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.
5:8 But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.
5:9 Let not a widow be taken into the number under threescore years old, having been the wife of one man,
5:10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints’ feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
5:11 But the younger widows refuse: for when they have begun to wax wanton against Christ, they will marry;
5:12 Having damnation, because they have cast off their first faith.
5:13 And withal they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house; and not only idle, but tattlers also and busybodies, speaking things which they ought not.
5:14 I will therefore that the younger women marry, bear children, guide the house, give none occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully.
5:15 For some are already turned aside after Satan.
5:16 If any man or woman that believeth have widows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged; that it may relieve them that are widows indeed.
Go deeper
Sources & interpretation
The teaching starts with the cited Scripture. These consulted works inform wording, context, and interpretive questions. No qualified human review has been recorded for this guide.
How do gift, preference and calling relate?
Paul wishes others were as he is, immediately acknowledges differing gifts, and gives different counsel according to circumstances. Verse 24 concludes with abiding with God; verses 28 and 39 allow change. Jeremiah’s prohibition is explicitly tied to his place and coming judgment.
- Winter takes 7:6 as introducing the wish in 7:7, with gifts framing the following cases.
- A backward reference to temporary marital abstinence connects 7:6 with 7:5.
- Gift can emphasize enablement for celibacy or God’s provision for differing conditions; these readings need not deny one another.
STRONG: God’s differing gifts qualify Paul’s preference; existing unmarried status is not a revealed lifetime sentence. PROBABLE: the gift includes enablement for faithful conduct in the condition described. UNCERTAIN: its exact definition and 7:6’s referent. Neither effortless contentment nor absent desire is supplied as a universal test.
Further study: Bruce W. Winter · Eric C. Redmond · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: Which words state a preference, a gift, a command, and permission? How do 7:28 and 39 limit an absolute reading of remaining in one’s calling?
Why does Paul call remaining unmarried better?
The reasons given are present distress, trouble in the flesh, the short time and passing world, and undistracted service. The same argument permits marriage and retains reciprocal marital duties.
- A particular present crisis gives the counsel a strongly local rationale, but the text does not name the crisis.
- An impending eschatological distress gives weight to 7:29–31, although its precise relation to present conditions remains uncertain.
- A general advantage for concentrated service remains visible in 7:32–35 without making every unmarried person more faithful.
VERY_STRONG: these stated reasons must govern better and happier. STRONG: comparative practical advantage does not cancel the goodness of marriage or make its duties irrelevant. UNCERTAIN: a specific historical identification of the distress; no famine or persecution chronology is asserted.
Further study: Melanie A. Howard · Eric C. Redmond
Further examination: How do 7:28 and 35 explain the purpose and limits of Paul’s preference? How can 7:29 be read together with 7:3–5?
Who is making the decision in 1 Corinthians 7:36–38?
The KJV speaks of his virgin, her age, keeping her, and giving her in marriage. Both permission to marry and a settled decision under no necessity are explicit.
- A father or guardian considering a daughter or ward fits giving in marriage and keeping his virgin.
- An engaged man considering marriage fits the unexpressed daughter relationship and the language of desire and decision elsewhere in the chapter.
- A pledged celibate partnership is another proposal, but this reading needs historical assumptions not established here.
UNCERTAIN: the participants’ precise relationship. STRONG: marriage is permitted and unmarried devotion commended. The main article preserves that common conclusion and names the two substantial readings rather than making either an obligatory relationship model.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: Which details favor each relationship, and which conclusion does Paul expressly state regardless of that choice?
How do permissions apply when a previous marriage exists?
First Corinthians 7:10–11 names remaining unmarried or reconciliation. Verses 12–16 distinguish a willing unbelieving spouse from one who departs. Verse 39 clearly permits a widow’s marriage in the Lord. Matthew 19:9 contains an exception involving fornication.
- One view reads not under bondage in 7:15 as freedom from maintaining the union, without permission to marry another.
- Another reads it as release from the bond, permitting remarriage; the relation to 7:39 and Jesus’ exception is central.
- The scope of Matthew’s exception is itself disputed: sexual unfaithfulness within marriage versus a more restricted unlawful or betrothal situation.
VERY_STRONG: prior marriage cannot be ignored and widowhood is explicitly distinguished. UNCERTAIN here: a comprehensive determination of disputed remarriage cases. This guide supplies the actual texts and does not settle an individual’s eligibility by quoting 7:9 or 28 alone.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Eric C. Redmond
Further examination: What relationship and event does each passage name? What additional argument is required before moving from permission to separate to permission to remarry?
How should consequential older wording be understood?
Matthew 19:12 places the kingdom eunuch saying after a discussion of not marrying. First Thessalonians 4:3–8 explicitly requires sexual holiness while verse 4 uses vessel. Matthew 5:27–30 addresses lust in the heart with severe bodily imagery.
- The final eunuch saying most probably uses the condition figuratively for chosen celibacy; a literal reading does not supply a warranted direction to injure oneself.
- Vessel has been understood as the person’s body, a wife, or specifically sexual organs. The surrounding call to honor and abstinence remains clear.
PROBABLE: kingdom celibacy is intended in Matthew 19:12 and bodily self-government in 1 Thessalonians 4:4. VERY_STRONG: holiness, restraint and regard for others are required. Main prose explains the moral response without turning contested lexical detail into a settled quotation or harmful literal practice.
Further study: Biblical Studies Press · Biblical Studies Press
Further examination: How does the immediate topic constrain each expression, and which duties are already explicit in the surrounding verses?
What sort of future is promised beyond marriage and descendants?
Isaiah promises covenant-keeping eunuchs a lasting name and welcomes faithful foreigners. Acts records an Ethiopian eunuch hearing about Jesus and being baptized. Ephesians explains shared access through Christ; Jesus’ resurrection teaching says that the raised do not marry.
- Isaiah’s promise can be read as enduring recognition and place within the restored covenant community, beyond biological continuation.
- Acts 8 offers a meaningful canonical connection, but it does not explicitly quote Isaiah 56 or narrate the man’s fertility, marital history, or earlier admission to the temple.
- A prediction of eventual marriage or biological descendants for every faithful unmarried reader goes beyond the stated promise.
STRONG: God’s welcome and lasting life are not dependent on a spouse or biological lineage. The particular covenant setting and faithful response remain part of Isaiah’s promise. No modern identity is assigned to the eunuch and no detailed map of resurrection relationships is inferred.
Further study: Richard W. Nysse
Further examination: What exactly does God promise the eunuch, and what does the passage ask of him? How does Christ’s resurrection teaching change the claim that a full life must include marriage?
- NET Bible: 1 Corinthians 7 and translation notes
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible via Bible Gateway
Clarifies sexual idiom, apostolic/Jesus teaching distinctions, circumstances of calling and translation difficulties.
What was reviewed
Entire chapter and footnotes 1–30, especially notes on 7:1–2, 9–12, 15, 20, 25 and 34. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Translator judgments are evaluated against the full KJV chapter; cited works and manuscripts were not independently inspected. Display remains pinned KJV.
- 1 Corinthians 7:6–7: A Caveat and a Framework for the Sayings in 7:8–24
Bruce W. Winter · Tyndale Bulletin 48.1, pp. 57–65 · 1997
Argues that 7:6 looks forward to Paul’s wish and that 7:7 frames differing gifts and callings.
What was reviewed
All nine PDF pages, printed pp. 57–65; sections I–III and notes. Accessed 2026-09-25.
An argued syntactical proposal, not consensus; the cited grammars and books were not independently read. The article’s own scope is narrower than the whole chapter.
- NET Bible: Matthew 19:10–12, notes a–e
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible via Bible Gateway
Judges the kingdom reference most likely figurative, concerning chosen celibacy.
What was reviewed
Complete page and five notes, especially note d on the final eunuch description. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Davies and Allison are cited by the note but their commentary was not independently read; probability is preserved.
- Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:29–31
Melanie A. Howard · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2021-01-24
Highlights the apocalyptic horizon and the reordering of present priorities.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary and three endnotes: context, shortening time, passing form, and present significance. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Its rhetoric of irrelevant marriage and pointless engagement is too sweeping alongside 7:3–5, 10–13; that inference is not adopted. Ancient works in the notes were not read.
- 1 Corinthians: Response on Decisions Related to Marriage and Singleness
Eric C. Redmond · The Gospel Coalition Bible Commentary
Distinguishes addressees and argues for focused service, a celibacy capacity, and a restrictive remarriage reading.
What was reviewed
The complete section on 7:1–40, including Clarification on Divorce and Remarriage; also 9:3–5. Other commentary sections are not claimed as read. Accessed 2026-09-25 · Read in part.
Its divorce reasoning is a disputed position; its 7:26–28 wording is less restricted than its earlier discussion. No blanket remarriage permission or emotional test of gifting is adopted.
- NET Bible: 1 Thessalonians 4:4, note a
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible via Bible Gateway
Prefers body for vessel while recording wife and a sexual-organs proposal.
What was reviewed
Verse page and complete note a. Accessed 2026-09-25.
The cited J. Smith article was not read; the main obligation is grounded also in the unambiguous surrounding verses.
- NET Bible: 1 Corinthians 7:36–38, notes a–d
Biblical Studies Press · NET Bible via Bible Gateway
Sets out guardian/daughter and engaged-couple readings and their grammatical considerations.
What was reviewed
Complete three-verse page and all four notes, including the two extended proposed readings. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Does not establish one reconstruction beyond dispute; ancient practice does not itself become a universal command.
- Commentary on Isaiah 56:1, 6–8
Richard W. Nysse · Working Preacher, Luther Seminary · 2008-08-17
Connects the everlasting name with Isaiah’s restoration promises and preserves the particular covenant qualifications.
What was reviewed
Complete commentary body, including its list of the foreigners’ covenant commitments. Accessed 2026-09-25.
Authorship reconstructions and political applications are not needed for this guide; the promise is not flattened into unrestricted approval of every practice.