1 CorinthiansНамуна

After first writing about the married, Paul now turns to those who, for various reasons, are not married. One can sense his pastoral heart, which tries to see each person in their respective life situation. In doing so, he looks beyond this present life.

• For married couples (vv. 10-11): Paul emphasizes the indissolubility of marriage, a principle that comes from Jesus himself. This is about faithfulness and commitment.
• For mixed marriages (vv. 12-16): Paul sees the marriage between a Christian and a non-Christian as an opportunity to win the partner for the faith. However, he also emphasizes peace as the highest good.
• For widows and widowers (vv. 39-40): Remarriage is permitted, but the choice of a partner "in the Lord" (that is, another Christian) is crucial for one's spiritual well-being.
• For the unmarried and engaged (vv. 25-38):
  Paul does not downplay the importance of marriage, but he stresses that the unmarried often have greater freedom to devote themselves to the service of God.
  He addresses the cares that both married and unmarried people have, as well as their different priorities. In difficult times (such as a famine), being single could be a relief.
  Paul acknowledges the power of sexual desire and sees marriage as a legitimate way to handle it.

Paul's main concern is that everyone, in their own life situation (married or single), finds their place and serves God.

Paul’s aim is not to legislate, but to provide guidance. He wants us to recognize and make use of the calling and opportunities within our respective states in life.