What is the “Gift” of Singleness?
PAPER • In 1 Corinthians 7:7, did Paul suggest that the “gift” of singleness is the preferable state of all believers in a fallen world—as has been argued by some—or the grace-empowered, voluntary celibacy of a relative few? This paper critiques the former view and makes a case for the latter, depicting celibacy as a special calling not superior to the enduring sanctity of marriage.
Read time: 12 min
Abstract
This position paper explores two biblical perspectives on the “gift” of singleness: one that views celibacy as preferable for all believers and another that sees it as a special grace-empowered vocation for a relative few. Some early church fathers, influenced by sayings from Jesus and Paul, regarded celibacy as superior to marriage, promoting a view that marriage is merely a concession to human weakness. However, this stance is challenged by considering the context of 1 Corinthians 7:7 and broader biblical teachings on marriage and celibacy. Paul’s commendations of singleness were timely, tailored to the “present distress” and not a blanket endorsement. Furthermore, celibacy, according to Jesus, is not the norm but a divine calling for kingdom service, given to only some. This paper critiques the view that absolutizes celibacy by highlighting the theological missteps of disregarding the goodness of the marital union and the historical context of Paul’s advice. It posits that marriage remains God’s normative plan, even post-fall, serving as a profound metaphor for the church’s union with Christ. Ultimately, I argue that the “gift” of singleness is a grace-empowered calling for a relatively few believers, upholding the sanctity of marriage as integral to God’s original and enduring design.
