“Now concerning virgins I have no command of the Lord, but I give an opinion as one who by the mercy of the Lord is trustworthy. I think then that this is good in view of the present distress, that it is good for a man to remain as he is. Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be released. Are you released from a wife? Do not seek a wife. But if you marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have trouble in this life, and I am trying to spare you.”

“Virgins” are the topic; the underlying Greek word is “parthenos,” which usually refers to a marriageable young woman who has not had sexual intercourse (see Matt. 1:18, 23). However, in rare instances it is used also of males (see Rev. 14:4). Some argue for Paul’s addressing the general case of anyone who is unmarried (see, in fact, that verse 26 first addresses “a man to remain as he is”). From verse 34 to the end of the chapter female virgins are in view. Paul is addressing the state of being unmarried versus married.

His judgment is conditioned by the phrase “in view of the present distress.” This is not wisdom for all times and all circumstances. Nor is this wisdom given in the form of absolute commandments. Christians tend toward black and white, clear lines between right and wrong. But life situations do not always conveniently align with the particulars of Scripture. Paul therefore cautions that while “it is good for a man to remain as he is,” he is not sinning to marry.

Do we want Paul to be clearer about what we should do? The Bible would not be able to contain all the specific applications appropriate to every situation we might confront. The Pharisees and Sadducees tried to do that, and it devolved into cold legalism. God instead gave us His Spirit, and therefore we have the mind of Christ (1 Cor. 2:16). God expects us to use that mind! Paul gives us his mercy-inspired wisdom from the Lord and leaves it to us what we do with that. Whatever we do, let it be done in wisdom with our eyes open to pros and cons of each choice.

When things are difficult—whether due to persecution, personal tragedy, or emotional stress—it is not the time to change one’s life situation in regards to marriage. How many Christians have poorly reasoned that being married would solve their problems, or getting out of the marriage would relieve them of problems? Paul, in mercy, is “trying to spare” Christians from rash decisions like that, which will radically affect their ability to handle their “present distress.” The best way to serve Christ and Him crucified in times of difficulty is to not change your marital status.

Lord, help me to live for You in my present state, in my difficulties.