1 Corinthians 7:40
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
1 Corinthians 7:40
40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 7 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, sacrifice, redemption. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 55 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: The church existed in a prosperous, cosmopolitan, morally permissive Roman colony.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-40: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it illustrates divine judgment and mercy in response to human actions. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within 1 Corinthians and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
1 Corinthians 7:40
40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.
Analysis
But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment—Paul gives personal counsel that widows are makariōtera (μακαριωτέρα, "more blessed/happier") remaining single. The phrase kata tēn emēn gnōmēn (κατὰ τὴν ἐμὴν γνώμην, "according to my judgment") echoes verse 25, distinguishing apostolic counsel from dominical command. Paul's opinion carries authority but is not prescriptive.
Paul concludes: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God (dokō de kagō pneuma theou echein, δοκῶ δὲ κἀγὼ πνεῦμα θεοῦ ἔχειν). This is not uncertain humility but confident assertion: "I too have the Spirit." Paul claims his counsel is Spirit-inspired, matching the authority of those in Corinth claiming spiritual superiority. His teaching on singleness reflects divine wisdom, not merely human opinion.
This verse concludes Paul's extended treatment of marriage and singleness (chapter 7). His message throughout: both callings are good gifts, marriage is permanent and honorable, singleness offers practical advantages for ministry, and believers should remain content in their calling while serving God with undivided devotion.
Historical Context
Paul's appeal to having the Spirit responds to Corinthian pneumatics who claimed superior spiritual insight. His teaching on marriage and singleness comes with apostolic authority, not as legalistic requirement but Spirit-guided wisdom for serving Christ faithfully in urgent times.
Reflection
- How does Paul's claim to "have the Spirit" establish authority for his teaching without creating legalistic requirements?
- Why does Paul think widows are "happier" remaining single—what advantages does he have in mind?
- How do Paul's counsel and Christ's commands work together to guide believers in marriage and singleness?
Word Studies
- God: Θεός (Theos) G2316 - God