1 Corinthians 7:34 – “And his interests are divided. An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs: Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit. But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband.”

Extended Explanation

In this verse, Paul continues his teaching on the differences between marriage and singleness. He is explaining that a married person has divided interests—they must think about both their relationship with God and their responsibilities to their spouse.

• “His interests are divided.” – Paul is acknowledging that marriage comes with responsibilities that require attention. A married person cannot fully devote themselves to ministry in the same way a single person can.
• “An unmarried woman or virgin is concerned about the Lord’s affairs.” – Paul highlights that singleness provides an opportunity to focus completely on serving God.
• “Her aim is to be devoted to the Lord in both body and spirit.” – A single woman can use her time, energy, and resources for God’s work without the distractions of marriage.
• “But a married woman is concerned about the affairs of this world—how she can please her husband.” – Just like a married man must think about his wife’s needs (1 Corinthians 7:33), a married woman must think about her husband’s needs. This is not a bad thing, but it is a reality that takes time and energy.

Paul’s point is not that marriage is wrong, but that singleness provides a unique opportunity for undivided devotion to God.

Historical Context

1. Marriage in Jewish and Roman Culture – In both Jewish and Roman societies, marriage was expected, especially for women. A woman’s role was often tied to household duties, raising children, and managing family affairs. Paul’s teaching was radical because it suggested that women could serve God in singleness, rather than seeing marriage as their only purpose.
2. The Growth of the Early Church – The Christian movement was expanding, and many early believers were involved in spreading the gospel, helping the poor, and serving in the church. Singleness allowed more freedom for these activities.
3. The “Present Crisis” (1 Corinthians 7:26) – Paul had already mentioned that the church was facing difficult times, possibly persecution or hardship. For this reason, singleness may have been a practical advantage in serving God during those times.

Paul is not forbidding marriage, but rather challenging the cultural expectation that marriage is the only path for a woman. He is showing that a single life devoted to God is a valuable calling.

Theological Implications

1. Singleness is a Gift, Not a Burden – Many people see singleness as a problem to be solved, but Paul describes it as an opportunity for greater devotion to God.
2. Marriage Requires a Balance Between God and Family – A married person must care for their spouse while still keeping God first. This requires wisdom and intentionality.
3. God Values Women’s Service in His Kingdom – In many cultures, women were expected to only serve within the home. Paul shows that women can also serve God in ministry and devotion, whether single or married.

This verse reminds us that both marriage and singleness are gifts from God, each with unique benefits and challenges.

Literary Analysis

Paul’s words are structured as a contrast between singleness and marriage:

• The unmarried woman is focused on the Lord’s work.
• The married woman must also focus on pleasing her husband.

Paul’s language is not critical of marriage—he is simply stating a reality. His goal is to help believers make informed decisions about whether they should marry or remain single.

This verse is part of a larger discussion (1 Corinthians 7:32-35), where Paul explains that singleness allows for greater focus on serving God, but marriage is also a good and honorable calling.

Biblical Cross-References

• Luke 10:38-42 – Mary sits at Jesus’ feet while Martha is “worried about many things.” (A picture of divided attention.)
• Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.” (A reminder that God should be our top priority.)
• 1 Corinthians 7:7 – “I wish that all of you were as I am. But each of you has your own gift from God.” (Paul acknowledges that both singleness and marriage are gifts.)
• Proverbs 31:10-31 – A passage showing that a married woman has responsibilities but can still honor God in her work.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

1. Singleness Can Be an Opportunity for Focused Service – Single Christians have a unique ability to serve God without distraction. This could be through missions, ministry, or acts of service.
2. Marriage is a Sacred Commitment That Requires Time and Effort – A married Christian must care for their spouse and balance their family life with their faith.
3. God Values Women’s Devotion to Him – Whether single or married, women have an important role in God’s kingdom. They are not just defined by their family status.

Paul’s teaching is not saying one path is better than the other, but rather encouraging believers to consider how they can best serve God in their current situation.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

1. God Gives Us Different Callings – Some people are called to marriage, and others to singleness. Both are valuable in His eyes.
2. God Cares About Our Priorities – He wants us to serve Him first, regardless of our relationship status.
3. God’s Love is Not Dependent on Our Marital Status – Whether single or married, God’s love and purpose for us remain the same.

God’s love is seen in the fact that He calls both single and married people to meaningful lives that glorify Him.

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

1. Jesus Lived as a Single Man Focused on God’s Mission – He was fully devoted to God’s work, setting an example for those who are called to singleness.
2. Jesus Taught That Devotion to God is the Most Important Thing – In Luke 14:26, He said that our love for God must be greater than even our love for family.
3. Jesus Calls Both Singles and Married People to Serve Him – No matter our relationship status, Jesus calls us to follow Him and seek His kingdom first.

Jesus’ life and teachings confirm Paul’s message: Our highest calling is devotion to God, whether we are single or married.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How does this verse challenge the way you think about singleness and marriage?
2. If you are single, how can you use your freedom to serve God more fully?
3. If you are married, how can you keep your focus on God while fulfilling your responsibilities to your spouse?
4. How does this verse encourage women to see their relationship with God as their highest priority?
5. How can you encourage both single and married Christians to see their relationship status as a gift from God?