1 Corinthians 7:37
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1 Corinthians 7:37
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.
Chapter Context
1 Corinthians 7 is a pastoral epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of righteousness, prayer, faith. 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 provides essential context for understanding God's covenant relationship with His people. 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 7:37
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.
Analysis
Nevertheless he that standeth stedfast in his heart—the phrase hos de hestēken hedraios en tē kardia (ὃς δὲ ἕστηκεν ἑδραῖος ἐν τῇ καρδίᾳ, "but whoever stands firm in his heart") describes resolute conviction. Having no necessity, but hath power over his own will—mē echōn anankēn, exousian de echei peri tou idiou thelēmatos (μὴ ἔχων ἀνάγκην, ἐξουσίαν δὲ ἔχει περὶ τοῦ ἰδίου θελήματος). There is no external pressure (cultural expectation, sexual temptation) compelling marriage.
The man who hath so decreed in his heart that he will keep his virgin, doeth well. The phrase tērein tēn heautou parthenon (τηρεῖν τὴν ἑαυτοῦ παρθένον, "keep his own virgin") means allowing her to remain unmarried. Kalōs poiei (καλῶς ποιεῖ, "does well") indicates this is a good choice. Paul affirms that remaining single (whether for oneself or one's daughter) is advantageous for ministry.
The conditions are crucial:
- firm conviction
- no necessity
- self-control.
If these are met, choosing singleness is "good." This reflects Paul's consistent teaching that singleness is advantageous but requires the corresponding gift (v. 7). Without gift and conviction, marriage is better (v. 9).
Historical Context
Paul's teaching freed fathers from obligatory marriage arrangements and honored women who chose celibacy for Christ's service. This was countercultural in societies where women's value centered on marriage and childbearing. Christian women could pursue devoted service without social shame.
Reflection
- What conditions must be met for singleness to be the wise choice—how can these be discerned?
- How does this verse honor women's calling to singleness rather than viewing unmarried women as shameful?
- In what ways does modern culture pressure marriage in ways similar to ancient culture?