Marriage, Singleness, and Conjugal Duties
1 Corinthians 7:1-40
1Cor.7.1 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Περι: PREP
- δε: CONJ
- ων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- εγραψατε: VERB,aor,act,ind,2,pl
- καλον: ADJ,nom/acc,sg,neut
- ανθρωπω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- γυναικος: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- μη: PART
- απτεσθαι·: VERB,pres,mid/pass,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:2 (structural): Immediate continuation of the chapter: Paul gives the practical reason for not abstaining (to avoid sexual immorality) and advises marriage as the remedy.
- 1 Corinthians 7:5 (verbal): Directly addresses sexual relations within marriage and permits temporary abstinence by mutual consent, clarifying the exception to 'not touching' one another.
- 1 Corinthians 7:7 (thematic): Paul presents celibacy as a legitimate gift and ideal for some, echoing the positive valuation of non‑sexual life implied by 'it is good for a man not to touch a woman.'
- 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (thematic): Calls for abstaining from sexual immorality and exercising self‑control over sexual desires, paralleling Paul's counsel about refraining from sexual contact for reasons of holiness.
- Matthew 19:11-12 (allusion): Jesus speaks of those who choose celibacy for the sake of the kingdom; provides a synoptic precedent for viewing abstention from sexual relations as a legitimate, voluntary stance.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now concerning the matters you wrote about: it is good for a man not to have sexual relations with a woman.
- Now concerning the matters you wrote about: it is good for a man not to touch a woman.
1Cor.7.2 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- δια: PREP
- δε: CONJ
- τας: ART,acc,pl,f
- πορνειας: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- εκαστος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- εαυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εχετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- και: CONJ
- εκαστη: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- ιδιον: ADJ,acc,sg,neut
- ανδρα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- εχετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
Parallels
- Genesis 2:24 (structural): Sets the creation-order basis for marital union—’one flesh’—which undergirds New Testament teachings about husband/wife relationship and sexual exclusivity.
- Matthew 19:4-6 (quotation): Jesus cites Genesis 2:24 to affirm marital unity and indissolubility; parallels Paul’s concern to regulate marriage as the proper context for sexual relations.
- 1 Corinthians 7:9 (thematic): Within the same chapter Paul returns to the issue of sexual desire and prescribes marriage for those who cannot exercise self-control, directly related to 7:2’s concern about fornication.
- Ephesians 5:31 (quotation): Paul explicitly quotes Genesis 2:24 about husband and wife becoming one flesh, developing the theological significance of the marital bond referenced in 1 Cor 7:2.
- Hebrews 13:4 (thematic): Affirms the honor of marriage and condemns sexual immorality—echoing 1 Cor 7:2’s aim to place sexual activity within marriage to prevent fornication.
Alternative generated candidates
- But because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife and each woman her own husband.
- But to avoid sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband.
1Cor.7.3 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- γυναικι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- οφειλην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- αποδιδοτω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- ομοιως: ADV
- δε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ανδρι: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:4 (verbal): Closely related immediate context: explicitly states the reciprocal authority of husband and wife over each other's bodies, reinforcing the mutual obligation expressed in 7:3.
- 1 Corinthians 7:5 (structural): Continues the same section on marital relations, regulating temporary abstinence by mutual consent and thereby presupposing the conjugal rights affirmed in 7:3.
- 1 Corinthians 7:2 (thematic): Sets the context for Paul’s instructions by stressing marriage as the proper arena for sexual relations, framing the mutual duties Paul articulates in 7:3.
- Ephesians 5:28-33 (thematic): Develops the ethic of mutual care in marriage—husbands are to love and cherish their wives as their own bodies—complementing Paul’s emphasis on reciprocal conjugal duties.
- 1 Peter 3:7 (thematic): Urges husbands to live with understanding and honor toward their wives as co-heirs, implying respectful fulfillment of marital duties and mutual obligations similar to Paul’s teaching in 1 Cor 7:3.
Alternative generated candidates
- The husband must fulfill the duty owed to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband.
- The husband should render to his wife the conjugal duty, and likewise the wife to her husband.
1Cor.7.4 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ιδιου: ADJ,gen,sg,m
- σωματος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εξουσιαζει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- αλλα: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ·ομοιως: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ιδιου: ADJ,gen,sg,m
- σωματος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εξουσιαζει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- αλλα: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:3 (verbal): Immediate context: affirms mutual conjugal duty—'the husband should fulfill his duty to his wife, and likewise the wife to her husband,' echoing shared authority over each other's bodies.
- 1 Corinthians 7:5 (structural): Directly continues the same argument about mutual control of the body, allowing abstinence only by mutual consent and for a time of prayer, which presupposes reciprocal authority.
- Ephesians 5:28-33 (thematic): Emphasizes the husband’s love for his wife 'as for his own body' and the one-flesh union, undergirding mutual responsibility and reciprocal care of each other's bodies.
- Genesis 2:24 (allusion): The one-flesh principle ('they become one flesh') serves as the Old Testament foundation for mutual belonging and authority within marriage reflected in 1 Cor 7:4.
- 1 Corinthians 6:15-20 (thematic): Paulic teaching that believers' bodies belong to Christ and are not for sexual immorality shapes his view of bodily belonging and the moral dimensions of marital relations.
Alternative generated candidates
- The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband; likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife.
- The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband; likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife.
1Cor.7.5 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- μη: PART
- αποστερειτε: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,pl
- αλληλους: PRON,acc,pl,m
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- μητι: PART
- αν: PART
- εκ: PREP
- συμφωνου: ADJ,gen,sg,m
- προς: PREP
- καιρον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- σχολασητε: VERB,aor,act,subj,2,pl
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- προσευχη: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- παλιν: ADV
- επι: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- αυτο: PRON,acc,sg,neut
- ητε: VERB,impf,act,ind,2,pl
- ινα: CONJ
- μη: PART
- πειραζη: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,sg
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- Σατανας: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- δια: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- ακρασιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
Parallels
- Matthew 26:41 (thematic): Jesus exhorts disciples to 'watch and pray' so they may not enter into temptation — parallels Paul’s link between temporary abstinence, prayer, and avoiding temptation.
- Luke 22:40–46 (thematic): Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane and the warning to pray lest you fall into temptation echoes Paul’s instruction to use prayer during periods of sexual abstinence to resist temptation.
- Ephesians 4:27 (verbal): Paul warns to 'give no opportunity to the devil' (Greek: μη διδως χωρον τω διαβολω), closely paralleling 1 Cor 7:5’s concern that Satan not tempt believers because of lack of self‑control.
- 1 Peter 5:8–9 (thematic): Peter depicts the devil as a prowling tempter and urges resistance — thematically related to Paul’s admonition to prevent Satan’s temptation through prayer and mutual care.
- Galatians 5:16–17 (thematic): Paul contrasts walking by the Spirit with gratifying the flesh; the exhortation about self‑control and avoiding fleshly temptation resonates with 1 Cor 7:5’s concern over 'akrasia' (lack of self‑control).
Alternative generated candidates
- Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by agreement for a season, that you may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you for your lack of self-control.
- Do not deprive one another, except perhaps by mutual consent for a time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; and come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
1Cor.7.6 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- δε: CONJ
- λεγω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- κατα: PREP
- συγγνωμην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- ου: PART,neg
- κατ᾽επιταγην: PREP+NOUN,acc,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Cor. 7:10 (quotation): Contrasts a binding 'command' from the Lord with Paul's permissive counsel; helps define what Paul means by speaking 'by permission' rather than issuing a command.
- 1 Cor. 7:12 (structural): Paul explicitly clarifies 'I, not the Lord' when giving instructions to certain groups—same structural move as 7:6, distinguishing his personal advice from divine command.
- 1 Cor. 7:25 (verbal): Uses similar phrasing (Paul's saying vs. authoritative command) and frames guidance as pastoral concession rather than a binding ruling, echoing the permissive tone of 7:6.
- 1 Cor. 7:40 (allusion): Paul again qualifies his instruction as his opinion ('λέγω ... κατὰ γνώμην'), echoing the advisory/permission language and reinforcing the non‑command character of some of his counsel.
Alternative generated candidates
- I say this by permission, not as a command.
- Now this I say by way of concession, not as a command from the Lord.
1Cor.7.7 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- θελω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- παντας: ADJ,acc,pl,m
- ανθρωπους: NOUN,acc,pl,m
- ειναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- ως: ADV
- και: CONJ
- εμαυτον·αλλα: PRON,acc,sg,m
- εκαστος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- ιδιον: ADJ,acc,sg,neut
- εχει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- χαρισμα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- εκ: PREP
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- μεν: PART
- ουτως: ADV
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- ουτως: ADV
Parallels
- 1 Cor 7:8 (verbal): Paul repeats the same idea more explicitly: to the unmarried and widows he says it is good for them to remain 'as I' — closely echoing the personal wish in 7:7.
- 1 Cor 7:6 (structural): Immediate context: Paul frames his statements about marriage and singleness as personal judgment not Lord's command, linking 7:7's 'I would that...' to his apostolic advice.
- Matt 19:11-12 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching about those who become 'eunuchs for the kingdom' presents celibacy as a valid gift/way of life for the sake of God's service, paralleling Paul's commendation of singleness as a gift.
- Rom 12:6 (verbal): Uses the same concept/term of 'gifts' (charismata): 'having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us,' echoing 7:7’s claim that each person has a distinct gift from God.
Alternative generated candidates
- I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one this way, another that way.
- I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God—one this way, another that.
1Cor.7.8 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Λεγω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- αγαμοις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- ταις: ART,dat,pl,f
- χηραις: NOUN,dat,pl,f
- καλον: ADJ,nom/acc,sg,neut
- αυτοις: PRO,dat,pl,3
- εαν: CONJ
- μεινωσιν: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,pl
- ως: ADV
- καγω·: PRO,nom,sg,1
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:7 (verbal): Paul expresses a personal preference that 'all men were as I am' and speaks of a gift of singleness — directly related to his recommendation that the unmarried and widows remain as he does.
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 (thematic): Paul explains the practical and spiritual advantages of singleness (undivided devotion to the Lord), providing the rationale behind his counsel for the unmarried to remain single.
- Matthew 19:11-12 (thematic): Jesus speaks of those who accept celibacy or live like 'eunuchs' for the sake of the kingdom, a comparable theological justification for voluntary singleness found in Paul’s counsel.
- 1 Corinthians 7:40 (structural): Paul returns to the topic of widows and marriage, advising that a widow is free to marry but that he thinks she will be happier if she remains as she is — a closely related practical judgment to 7:8.
Alternative generated candidates
- To the unmarried and to the widows I say: it is good for them to remain even as I am.
- To the unmarried and to the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am.
1Cor.7.9 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- δε: CONJ
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εγκρατευονται: VERB,pres,mid/pass,ind,3,pl
- γαμησατωσαν: VERB,aor,act,imp,3,pl
- κρειττον: ADJ,nom,sg,neut,comp
- γαρ: PART
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- γαμησαι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- πυρουσθαι: VERB,pres,mid/pass,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:2 (verbal): Directly related instruction in the same chapter: couples are to marry to avoid fornication—parallels the solution offered in 7:9 (marry rather than 'burn').
- 1 Timothy 5:14 (thematic): Paul urges younger widows to marry so that they may avoid idleness and potential sin—uses marriage as a practical remedy for moral/sexual temptation.
- 1 Thessalonians 4:3-5 (thematic): Calls for sanctification and self-control of sexual passion (not to lust like the Gentiles); addresses the need to manage sexual desire—background for Paul's counsel to marry if one cannot control oneself.
- Hebrews 13:4 (thematic): Affirms the honor of marriage and the propriety of sexual relations within it, implying marriage as the proper sphere to avoid sexual immorality.
- Matthew 19:11-12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching on celibacy and marriage acknowledges some have a gift to remain single while others do not—recognizes marriage as the appropriate alternative for those unable to remain celibate.
Alternative generated candidates
- But if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
- But if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
1Cor.7.10 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Τοις: ART,dat,pl,m
- δε: CONJ
- γεγαμηκοσιν: VERB,perf,pass,part,dat,pl,m
- παραγγελλω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- αλλα: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- απο: PREP
- ανδρος: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- μη: PART
- χωρισθηναι: VERB,aor,pass,inf
Parallels
- Matthew 19:3-9 (quotation): Jesus' teaching on divorce: 'What God has joined, let no man separate' and restriction on divorce—Paul's 'not I but the Lord' invokes the Lord's authority on marriage and non-separation.
- Mark 10:2-12 (quotation): Mark's parallel account of Jesus' prohibition of divorce and the unity of husband and wife, providing the Gospel teaching Paul appeals to in commanding spouses not to separate.
- Matthew 5:31-32 (allusion): Sermon on the Mount ruling against casual divorce (with exception clause); provides the ethical background to Paul's admonition that a wife should not separate from her husband.
- 1 Corinthians 7:12-13 (structural): Immediate contrast within the same chapter: Paul distinguishes the Lord's direct command to married believers (v.10) from his own pastoral guidance regarding mixed-belief marriages (v.12–13).
- Ephesians 5:22-33 (thematic): Develops the theological ideal of marital unity and mutual duties (Christ–church imagery); echoes the principle that spouses are to remain united rather than separate.
Alternative generated candidates
- To the married I give this charge—not I, but the Lord—that the wife should not separate from her husband.
- To the married I give this command—not I but the Lord—that the wife should not separate from her husband.
1Cor.7.11 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εαν: CONJ
- δε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- χωρισθη: VERB,aor,pass,subj,3,sg
- μενετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- αγαμος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ανδρι: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- καταλλαγητω: VERB,aor,pass,imp,3,sg
- και: CONJ
- ανδρα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- μη: PART
- αφιεναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:10 (structural): Immediate preceding instruction to married couples — authoritative charge (’not I, but the Lord’) forbidding separation, to which v.11 continues and clarifies remedy if separation occurs.
- 1 Corinthians 7:12-13 (structural): Continues the same section on marriage and separation, commanding believers not to leave an unbelieving spouse and echoing the prohibition on putting away a wife.
- Matthew 19:6 (verbal): Jesus’ assertion ‘what therefore God has joined together, let not man separate’ parallels Paul’s prohibition of a husband putting away his wife, both affirming marriage permanence.
- Genesis 2:24 (allusion): The foundational OT concept of two becoming one flesh underlies New Testament commands against divorce and undergirds Paul’s insistence on remaining married or reconciling.
- Malachi 2:16 (thematic): The prophetic denunciation of divorce (‘I hate divorce’) echoes the theological concern for marital faithfulness reflected in Paul’s instruction that husbands not dismiss their wives.
Alternative generated candidates
- But if she does separate, let her remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband; and the husband must not divorce his wife.
- But if she does separate, let her remain unmarried or be reconciled to her husband; and the husband must not divorce his wife.
1Cor.7.12 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Τοις: ART,dat,pl,m
- δε: CONJ
- λοιποις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- λεγω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- ουχ: PART,neg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος·ει: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- αδελφος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εχει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- απιστον: ADJ,acc,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- αυτη: PRON,dat,sg,f
- συνευδοκει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- οικειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- μετ᾽αυτου: PREP+PRON,gen,sg,m
- μη: PART
- αφιετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- αυτην·: PRON,acc,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Cor 7:13 (verbal): A near-verbatim parallel addressed to the wife: if an unbelieving husband is willing to live with her, she must not divorce—same situation mirrored for wives.
- 1 Cor 7:10 (structural): Contrasts the source of authority: v.10 records a command ‘not I, but the Lord,’ whereas v.12 (the verse in question) begins ‘to the rest I say, not the Lord,’ highlighting Paul's personal instruction vs. the Lord’s.
- 1 Cor 7:15 (thematic): Gives the complementary ruling where the unbelieving spouse abandons the marriage (‘let him depart’), balancing v.12’s injunction to remain when the unbeliever consents to live together.
- 1 Pet 3:1–2 (thematic): Advises believing wives to win unbelieving husbands by their conduct; thematically related to Paul’s expectation that a believer continue cohabitation with an unbelieving spouse in hope of influence.
- Matt 19:3–9 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching on marriage and divorce (what God has joined, let no one separate; exception clause) supplies the Lord’s marital standard that underlies Paul’s distinctions and explains the contrast between Jesus’ commands and Paul’s pastoral allowances regarding unbelieving spouses.
Alternative generated candidates
- To the rest I say (I, not the Lord): If any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her.
- To the rest I say—and I, not the Lord—that if any brother has an unbelieving wife who consents to live with him, he should not divorce her.
1Cor.7.13 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- εχει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ανδρα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- απιστον: ADJ,acc,sg,m
- και: CONJ
- ουτος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- συνευδοκει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- οικειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- μετ᾽αυτης: PREP+PRON,gen,sg,f
- μη: PART
- αφιετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- ανδρα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:12 (verbal): Immediate context—Paul addresses the case of a believer with an unbelieving spouse, giving parallel instruction to husbands and wives about remaining with an unbelieving partner when they consent to live together.
- 1 Corinthians 7:15 (thematic): Same chapter—Paul explains the related principle that if an unbelieving spouse departs, the believer is not bound in such circumstances, balancing the command to remain with the unbelieving partner if peace is preserved.
- 1 Peter 3:1-2 (thematic): Advises wives married to unbelieving husbands to submit and seek to win them by godly conduct rather than divorce, echoing the call to remain with an unbelieving spouse who consents to live together.
- Matthew 19:6 (allusion): Jesus’ teaching on the permanence and unity of marriage ('they are no longer two but one flesh') undergirds Paul’s counsel against divorcing an unbelieving spouse who wishes to live with the believer.
- Ephesians 5:31-33 (thematic): Paul’s later treatment of marriage as a binding, covenantal unity between husband and wife complements his injunction here not to abandon an unbelieving spouse who chooses to remain in the marriage.
Alternative generated candidates
- And a woman who has a husband who is an unbeliever, if he consents to live with her, she must not divorce him.
- And if a woman has an unbelieving husband who consents to live with her, she should not divorce him.
1Cor.7.14 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ηγιασται: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- γαρ: PART
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- απιστος: ADJ,voc,sg,f
- εν: PREP
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- γυναικι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ηγιασται: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- απιστος: ADJ,voc,sg,f
- εν: PREP
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- αδελφω·επει: NOUN,dat,sg,m + CONJ
- αρα: PART
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- τεκνα: NOUN,acc,pl,neut
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- ακαθαρτα: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- νυν: ADV
- δε: CONJ
- αγια: ADJ,nom,pl,n
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:12-16 (structural): Immediate context: Paul’s instructions about believers married to unbelievers; v.14 is part of his argument that the believing spouse sanctifies the marriage and children (the same paragraph and line of reasoning).
- 1 Peter 3:1-2 (thematic): Commands believing wives to win unbelieving husbands by holy conduct—echoes the idea that a believer’s faith and behavior can positively influence and lead to the sanctification or conversion of an unbelieving spouse/household.
- Deuteronomy 7:3-4 (thematic): Law forbidding intermarriage with surrounding nations because such marriages could turn children away to other gods; parallels the concern in 1 Cor 7:14 about the religious/ritual status and influence of children in mixed marriages.
- Ezra 9:1-2 (thematic): Ezra’s complaint that Israelites’ intermarriage with foreign women has ‘defiled’ the holy community and affected their children—a post-exilic parallel to the concern about purity/holiness and the impact of mixed unions on offspring.
Alternative generated candidates
- For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.
- For the unbelieving husband is sanctified through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified through her husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy.
1Cor.7.15 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- δε: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- απιστος: ADJ,voc,sg,f
- χωριζεται: VERB,pres,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- χωριζεσθω·ου: VERB,pres,mid/pass,imp,3,sg
- δεδουλωται: VERB,perf,pass,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αδελφος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- αδελφη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- εν: PREP
- τοις: ART,dat,pl,n
- τοιουτοις: ADJ,dat,pl,m
- εν: PREP
- δε: CONJ
- ειρηνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- κεκληκεν: VERB,perf,act,ind,3,sg
- ημας: PRON,acc,pl,1
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- θεος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 (quotation): Paul appeals to the Lord's command forbidding a believing spouse to depart; 7:15 contrasts this by permitting separation when the unbelieving partner leaves.
- 1 Corinthians 7:12-13 (structural): Immediate context treating marriages between believers and unbelievers; 7:15 continues the practical ruling when the unbelieving partner separates.
- Romans 14:19 (thematic): “Let us then pursue what makes for peace” echoes 7:15’s conclusion that God has called believers to peace and mutual edification.
- Ephesians 4:3 (thematic): Exhortation to maintain unity “in the bond of peace” parallels the vocational claim here that God calls his people to peace.
- Matthew 5:9 (thematic): “Blessed are the peacemakers” complements the motif that followers of God are called to pursue peace (cf. 7:15’s ‘called to peace’).
Alternative generated candidates
- But if the unbelieving partner separates, let him separate; in such cases the brother or sister is not bound. God has called you to peace.
- But if the unbelieving one separates, let him separate. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved; God has called you to live in peace.
1Cor.7.16 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- γαρ: PART
- οιδας: VERB,perf,act,ind,2,sg
- γυναι: NOUN,voc,sg,f
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- ανδρα: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- σωσεις: VERB,fut,act,ind,2,sg
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- τι: PRON,int,nom,sg,n
- οιδας: VERB,perf,act,ind,2,sg
- ανερ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ει: VERB,pres,act,ind,2,sg
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- γυναικα: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- σωσεις: VERB,fut,act,ind,2,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:12-14 (structural): Immediate context: Paul addresses believers married to unbelievers and the possible spiritual benefit (household sanctification), framing the same concern about whether a believing spouse can 'save' the unbelieving partner.
- 1 Corinthians 7:15 (structural): Close contextual parallel dealing with the practical outcome when an unbelieving spouse departs — relates to the question of the believer's responsibility and the prospects for the unbeliever's salvation.
- 1 Peter 3:1-2 (thematic): Advises that wives may lead unbelieving husbands to faith by their conduct—directly parallels the idea that a believing spouse can influence and potentially 'save' the other.
- Colossians 3:18-19 (thematic): Part of the New Testament household code regarding wives and husbands; thematically parallels Paul's pastoral guidance about marital roles and the spiritual implications of marital conduct.
Alternative generated candidates
- For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?
- For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?
1Cor.7.17 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ει: PART
- μη: PART
- εκαστω: ADJ,dat,sg,m
- ως: ADV
- εμερισεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- κυριος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εκαστον: ADJ,nom,sg,n
- ως: ADV
- κεκληκεν: VERB,perf,act,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- θεος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ουτως: ADV
- περιπατειτω·και: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- ουτως: ADV
- εν: PREP
- ταις: ART,dat,pl,f
- εκκλησιαις: NOUN,dat,pl,f
- πασαις: ADJ,dat,pl,f
- διατασσομαι: VERB,pres,mid/psv,ind,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Cor. 7:20 (verbal): Uses the same idea and near-verbatim language: each person should remain in the calling in which he was called — a direct restatement/expansion of 7:17’s instruction.
- 1 Cor. 7:24 (structural): Another immediate recapitulation in the same paragraph: Paul again tells believers to remain in the condition in which they were called, framing the principle as a rule for the churches.
- Eph. 4:1 (thematic): Paulic exhortation to 'walk worthy of the calling' shows the same ethical logic: one’s conduct should correspond to the divine calling one has received.
- Col. 1:10 (thematic): Calls for believers to 'walk worthy' and live so as to please the Lord, paralleling 7:17’s linking of one’s walk (conduct) to God’s calling or assignment.
- 1 Thess. 4:1 (thematic): An apostolic appeal to 'walk' so as to please God; echoes the ethical imperative in 7:17 that believers should conduct their lives according to how God has called/assigned them.
Alternative generated candidates
- Only, as the Lord has assigned to each, as God has called each, so let him walk. I give this direction in all the churches.
- Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
1Cor.7.18 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- περιτετμημενος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- εκληθη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,3,sg
- μη: PART
- επισπασθω·εν: PREP
- ακροβυστια: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- κεκληται: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- τις;μη: PRON,nom,sg,m
- περιτεμνεσθω: VERB,pres,mid/pass,imp,3,sg
Parallels
- Gal.5:2-3 (verbal): Paul addresses circumcision and its implications for a believer’s standing—like 1 Cor 7:18, it treats whether one should submit to circumcision after being called.
- Gal.6:15 (thematic): Emphasizes that circumcision/uncircumcision are ultimately insignificant compared with being a new creation, echoing 1 Cor 7:18’s de‑emphasis of changing physical status upon calling.
- Rom.2:25-29 (thematic): Distinguishes outward circumcision from true, inward circumcision of the heart; provides theological background for Paul’s instruction not to change circumcision status in 1 Cor 7:18.
- Phil.3:2-3 (verbal): Paul rejects confidence in physical circumcision and redefines true identity in Christ—parallel in tone and purpose to 1 Cor 7:18’s instruction regarding circumcision and calling.
- Acts 15:1-11 (structural): The Jerusalem Council’s debate over requiring circumcision of Gentile converts supplies the wider church context for Paul’s practical guidance about circumcision in 1 Cor 7:18.
Alternative generated candidates
- Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not seek to be uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised.
- Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised.
1Cor.7.19 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- περιτομη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- ουδεν: PRON,acc,sg,n
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- και: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- ακροβυστια: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- ουδεν: PRON,acc,sg,n
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- αλλα: CONJ
- τηρησις: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- εντολων: NOUN,gen,pl,f
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- Galatians 5:6 (verbal): Paul similarly says 'neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything' and redirects value to faith active in love rather than ritual observance, echoing 1 Cor 7:19's devaluation of the physical sign.
- Galatians 6:15 (thematic): Affirms that circumcision/uncircumcision are of no account and instead emphasizes being a 'new creation,' paralleling 1 Cor 7:19's move from external rite to transformed status before God.
- Romans 2:28-29 (thematic): Contrasts external circumcision with inward, spiritual 'circumcision of the heart,' reflecting the same shift from physical ritual to obedience/true covenant identity found in 1 Cor 7:19.
- Colossians 2:11-12 (allusion): Speaks of a 'spiritual circumcision' in Christ (linked to baptism) that supersedes the fleshly sign, an interpretive redefinition parallel to 1 Cor 7:19's denial of the ritual's ultimate value.
- Philippians 3:3 (thematic): Claims the true 'circumcision' are those worshiping by the Spirit and putting no confidence in the flesh, resonating with 1 Cor 7:19's emphasis on obedience/faith rather than physical circumcision.
Alternative generated candidates
- Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing; but keeping the commandments of God is what matters.
- For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but keeping the commandments of God.
1Cor.7.20 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εκαστος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- εν: PREP
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- κλησει: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- εκληθη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,3,sg
- εν: PREP
- ταυτη: PRO,dat,sg,f
- μενετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:24 (verbal): Repeats the same injunction in nearly identical language—'remain in the calling in which you were called'—reinforcing the instruction to stay in one’s present situation.
- 1 Corinthians 7:17 (structural): Part of the same pericope: Paul frames his guidance around each person's calling, urging believers to live according to the calling they received rather than seeking change.
- Ephesians 4:1 (thematic): Calls believers to 'walk worthily of the calling' (τῆς κλήσεως), connecting the idea of ethical steadiness and comportment to the reality of one’s calling.
- Romans 11:29 (thematic): Describes God's gifts and calling as irrevocable ('τὰ χάρισματα καὶ ἡ κλῆσις τοῦ θεοῦ... ἀμετάθετος'), offering a theological angle on the permanence and significance of divine calling behind Paul’s practical admonition.
Alternative generated candidates
- Let each remain in the condition in which he was called.
- Each person should remain in the condition in which he was called.
1Cor.7.21 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Δουλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εκληθης: VERB,aor,pass,ind,2,sg
- μη: PART
- σοι: PRON,dat,sg,2
- μελετω·αλλ᾽ει: VERB,pres,act,subj,1,sg
- και: CONJ
- δυνασαι: VERB,pres,mid,ind,2,sg
- ελευθερος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- γενεσθαι: VERB,aor,mid,inf
- μαλλον: ADV
- χρησαι: VERB,pres,mid,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:22-23 (structural): Immediate context: Paul explains that one called as a slave is the Lord’s freedman and urges believers to remain as they were called, reinforcing the same practical counsel about status and calling.
- Philemon 15-16 (thematic): Paul’s appeal regarding Onesimus treats a slave’s changed relationship after conversion (no longer merely a slave but a beloved brother), echoing concerns about slavery, freedom, and new identity in Christ.
- Romans 6:16-18 (verbal): Uses the language of slavery and freedom (slaves to sin vs. freed to righteousness); parallels Paul’s interest in the believer’s ultimate status and where their allegiance leads, not merely social condition.
- Galatians 3:28 (thematic): Affirms that social distinctions (Jew/Greek, slave/free) are transcended in Christ, resonating with Paul’s counsel not to be overly anxious about earthly status.
- Colossians 3:22–4:1 (thematic): Household code addressing slaves and masters: practical instructions for slaves’ conduct and masters’ responsibility, providing another Pauline treatment of slavery and Christian behavior within social roles.
Alternative generated candidates
- Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can gain your freedom, make use of the opportunity.
- Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can gain your freedom, use it rather.
1Cor.7.22 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- γαρ: PART
- εν: PREP
- κυριω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- κληθεις: VERB,aor,pass,ptc,nom,m,sg
- δουλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- απελευθερος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- εστιν·ομοιως: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg+ADV
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ελευθερος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- κληθεις: VERB,aor,pass,ptc,nom,m,sg
- δουλος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- Χριστου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:21 (structural): Immediate context: Paul addresses those 'called' in their social condition (slave or free) and urges not to be troubled; uses same language of being 'called' and the issue of slavery.
- 1 Corinthians 7:23 (verbal): Close verbal and thematic link: 'you were bought with a price' and the warning not to become slaves of men connects Christian freedom and new allegiance to Christ.
- Galatians 3:28 (thematic): Declares that social distinctions ('slave or free') are overcome in Christ—echoes 1 Cor 7:22's redefinition of status in the Lord.
- 1 Corinthians 12:13 (thematic): Speaks of baptismal unity 'Jews or Greeks, slaves or free'—similar theological point that belonging to Christ transcends social categories.
- Philemon 15-16 (allusion): Paul's appeal regarding Onesimus transforms a slave relationship into brotherhood in the Lord—concrete example of the change of status Paul describes in 1 Cor 7:22.
Alternative generated candidates
- For the one called in the Lord as a slave is the Lord's freedman; likewise the one called while free is Christ's slave.
- For the one who was called while a slave is the Lord’s freed person; likewise the one called while free is Christ’s slave.
1Cor.7.23 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τιμης: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- ηγορασθητε·μη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,2,pl
- γινεσθε: VERB,pres,mid/pass,imp,2,pl
- δουλοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- ανθρωπων: NOUN,gen,pl,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 6:20 (verbal): Uses the same language — "you were bought with a price" (τιμῆς ἠγοράσθητε) — linking bodily/ethical freedom to being purchased by Christ.
- 1 Corinthians 7:21-22 (structural): Immediate context in the same chapter treats slavery and status (whether free or slave) and urges living in the condition one was called, connecting to the admonition not to become slaves of men.
- Galatians 5:1 (thematic): Paul contrasts Christian freedom with slavery — "For freedom Christ has set us free; stand firm and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery" — echoing the call not to become enslaved to human authority.
- Romans 6:16 (allusion): Uses slavery imagery to make a moral point — "you are slaves of the one whom you obey" — resonating with the warning against becoming slaves of people after having been 'bought.'
Alternative generated candidates
- You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.
- You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.
1Cor.7.24 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εκαστος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- εν: PREP
- ω: PRON,dat,sg,m
- εκληθη: VERB,aor,pass,ind,3,sg
- αδελφοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- εν: PREP
- τουτω: DEM,dat,sg,m
- μενετω: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- παρα: PREP
- θεω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:20 (verbal): Nearly identical wording elsewhere in the same chapter: 'Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.' (same exhortation repeated).
- 1 Corinthians 7:17 (structural): Paul's broader principle about remaining in the calling in which one was called (walk in the calling you received), framing the ethical posture behind verse 24.
- 1 Corinthians 7:21–22 (thematic): Applied discussion of the same principle to slaves and free persons — God’s calling and present social status do not negate Christian identity ('called in the Lord').
- Ephesians 4:1 (thematic): Paulic exhortation to 'walk worthy of the calling' — similar concern with how one lives in light of the divine calling rather than changing social status.
- Philemon 15–16 (allusion): Onesimus’s change of status (slave to brother) illustrates the New Testament theme that Christian calling reshapes relationships and must be lived out within existing social conditions.
Alternative generated candidates
- Brothers, each one, in whatever condition he was called, let him remain with God.
- Brothers, each in whatever condition he was called, there let him remain with God.
1Cor.7.25 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Περι: PREP
- δε: CONJ
- των: ART,gen,pl,m
- παρθενων: NOUN,gen,pl,f
- επιταγην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ουκ: PART,neg
- εχω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- γνωμην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- διδωμι: VERB,pres,act,subj,1,sg
- ως: ADV
- ηλεημενος: PART,perf,pass,nom,sg,m
- υπο: PREP
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- πιστος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- ειναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:6 (verbal): Paul makes the same distinction elsewhere between his own counsel and a direct command from the Lord (“But I speak this by permission, not of commandment”), mirroring 7:25’s claim of lacking a Lord’s injunction and offering personal judgment.
- 1 Corinthians 7:12 (verbal): Instructing other cases Paul again contrasts his apostolic advice with the Lord’s commands (“To the rest I say, not the Lord”), the same formulaic boundary between divine command and Pauline counsel found in 7:25.
- 1 Corinthians 7:10 (structural): Verse 10 provides a counterpoint where Paul reports a true Lord’s charge to the married (“not I, but the Lord”), highlighting the structural contrast in 7:25 between matters governed by the Lord’s command and matters on which Paul offers personal judgment.
- 1 Corinthians 7:40 (thematic): Paul again characterizes his advice as a judgment shaped by divine assistance (“after my judgment... I think also that I have the Spirit of God”), resonating with 7:25’s appeal to being one who has received the Lord’s mercy and therefore offers faithful counsel.
- Matthew 19:11-12 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching about eunuchs and voluntary celibacy (those who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom) connects thematically to Paul’s discussion of virgins and singleness: both address voluntary sexual abstinence and its place in the life of the community, though Paul here frames his statements as personal guidance rather than a direct Lord’s command.
Alternative generated candidates
- Now concerning virgins I have no command of the Lord; yet I give my opinion, as one who by the Lord's mercy is trustworthy.
- Now concerning virgins: I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment, as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.
1Cor.7.26 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- νομιζω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ουν: CONJ
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- καλον: ADJ,nom/acc,sg,neut
- υπαρχειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- δια: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- ενεστωσαν: VERB,pres,act,ptc,acc,sg,f
- αναγκην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- οτι: CONJ
- καλον: ADJ,nom/acc,sg,neut
- ανθρωπω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ουτως: ADV
- ειναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- 1 Cor.7.25-28 (verbal): Immediate context: Paul frames his advice as a judgment given because of the 'present distress' and again counsels that it is good for a person to remain as they are (singleness). Shares wording and rationale.
- 1 Cor.7.29-31 (structural): Develops the same rationale—urgency of the present time ('the appointed time has grown short')—which undergirds Paul's recommendation toward singleness and undistracted life.
- 1 Cor.7.8-9 (thematic): Earlier counsel that it is good for the unmarried and widows to remain single, though marriage is permitted to avoid sexual immorality—same pastoral concern and positive valuation of singleness.
- Matt.19.10-12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching about those who renounce marriage for the sake of the kingdom (eunuchs), endorsing singleness for religious reasons; parallels Paul's view that singleness can be a good state for spiritual purposes.
- Rom.13.11-12 (allusion): Paulic eschatological urgency—'it is high time... the night is far gone'—parallels the 'present distress' motive in 1 Cor 7:26 as a reason for advising single, focused living.
Alternative generated candidates
- I think, then, that for the present distress it is good for a man to remain as he is.
- I think, then, that because of the present distress it is good for a person to remain as he is.
1Cor.7.27 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- δεδεσαι: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,2,sg
- γυναικι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- μη: PART
- ζητει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- λυσιν·λελυσαι: NOUN,acc,sg,f+VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,2,sg
- απο: PREP
- γυναικος: NOUN,gen,sg,f
- μη: PART
- ζητει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- γυναικα·: NOUN,acc,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:28 (verbal): Immediate continuation of the same argument—Paul balances the admonition not to seek a release with the concession that marrying after separation is not sinful; verbal and contextual parallel.
- 1 Corinthians 7:20-24 (structural): Broader teaching in the same chapter that believers should remain in the condition in which they were called (including marital status); shares the same structural principle of 'remain as you are.'
- 1 Corinthians 7:10-11 (quotation): Paul cites the Lord's command concerning married couples not to separate, which undergirds his prohibition here against seeking a dissolution of marriage.
- Matthew 19:3-12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching on marriage and divorce (including the hardness of heart exception) addresses the permanence of marriage and limits on seeking divorce, thematically parallel to Paul's instruction.
- Ephesians 5:22-33 (thematic): Paul's later instruction on the marital relationship emphasizes unity and mutual obligations in marriage, echoing the underlying value of remaining married rather than seeking separation.
Alternative generated candidates
- Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be loosed. Are you loosed from a wife? Do not seek a wife.
- Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free from a wife? Do not seek a wife.
1Cor.7.28 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- εαν: CONJ
- δε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- γαμησης: VERB,pres,act,subj,2,sg
- ουχ: PART,neg
- ημαρτες: VERB,aor,act,ind,2,sg
- και: CONJ
- εαν: CONJ
- γημη: VERB,aor,mid,subj,3,sg
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- παρθενος: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- ουχ: PART,neg
- ημαρτεν: VERB,aor,act,ind,3,sg
- θλιψιν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- σαρκι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- εξουσιν: VERB,fut,act,ind,3,pl
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- τοιουτοι: ADJ,nom,pl,m
- εγω: PRON,nom,sg,1
- δε: CONJ
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- φειδομαι: VERB,pres,mid,ind,1,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:27 (verbal): Immediate parallel in the same discussion: repeats the formula about marrying 'you have not sinned,' linking the permissive ruling for those already bound.
- 1 Corinthians 7:36-38 (verbal): Same subject (betrothed/virgin and marriage) and similar language about whether marrying is a sin, offering a closely related ruling and rationale.
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 (thematic): Develops the contrast Paul makes between married and unmarried life: marriage brings worldly anxieties and divided interests, explaining the 'trouble in the flesh' mentioned in v.28.
- 1 Corinthians 7:25-26 (thematic): Frames Paul's counsel about virgins and marriage in view of the 'present distress'—provides the situational reason for his spare/precautionary advice in v.28.
- Matthew 19:10-12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching on celibacy/eunuchs for the kingdom echoes the New Testament theme that singleness can be preferable for undivided service, which underlies Paul's advice about marriage and its burdens.
Alternative generated candidates
- But if you marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have worldly troubles; and I would spare you.
- But if you marry, you have not sinned; and if a virgin marries, she has not sinned. Yet such will have trouble in the flesh, and I spare you.
1Cor.7.29 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- δε: CONJ
- φημι: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- αδελφοι: NOUN,nom,pl,m
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- καιρος: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- συνεσταλμενος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- εστιν·το: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- λοιπον: ADJ,acc,sg,n
- ινα: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- εχοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- γυναικας: NOUN,acc,pl,f
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- εχοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- ωσιν: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,pl
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:26 (structural): Immediate context in the same chapter discussing the 'present distress' and Paul's counsel about marriage—sets up v.29's assertion that the time is short.
- Romans 13:11-12 (verbal): Speaks of the nearness of the hour and urgent moral conduct ('it is time to wake from sleep'), using language of imminent time similar to 'the time is short.'
- 1 Peter 4:7 (verbal): Declares that 'the end of all things is at hand' and calls for sober conduct—parallels the sense of urgency and eschatological imminence in 1 Cor 7:29.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:2-6 (thematic): Emphasizes the unexpected coming of the Lord and urges vigilance and sober living—echoes the ethical implications of 'the time is short' for everyday conduct.
- James 4:14-15 (thematic): Highlights life's brevity ('you are a mist') and the need to submit plans to the Lord's will, resonating with Paul's counsel to live as if circumstances (like marriage) were temporary because of limited time.
Alternative generated candidates
- But this I say, brothers: the appointed time has been shortened; from now on those who have wives should be as though they had none,
- But this I say, brothers: the time is short. From now on those who have wives should live as though they had none;
1Cor.7.30 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- κλαιοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- κλαιοντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,pl,m
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- χαιροντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,m,pl
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- χαιροντες: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,m,pl
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- αγοραζοντες: PART,pres,act,nom,pl,m
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- κατεχοντες: PART,pres,act,nom,pl,m
Parallels
- 1 Cor. 7:29-31 (structural): Immediate literary context: vv.29–31 form the same exhortation to live as though not attached to worldly conditions (incl. v.31's 'the present form of this world is passing away').
- Philippians 3:7-8 (thematic): Paulic theme of renouncing or counting worldly gains/attachments as loss for Christ—reflects same ethic of detachment from earthly joys/possessions.
- Matthew 6:19-21 (thematic): Jesus' warning not to store up earthly treasures and to set one’s heart on heavenly goods parallels the instruction to live as though not bound to possessions.
- 1 John 2:15-17 (allusion): Warning against loving the world because 'the world is passing away' echoes 1 Cor.7's perspective that worldly griefs/joys and possessions are transient.
- James 4:13-15 (thematic): Admonition against presumptive planning for tomorrow and reminder of life's brevity complements Paul’s call to live as if not claiming permanence in worldly affairs.
Alternative generated candidates
- and those who weep as though they did not weep, and those who rejoice as though they did not rejoice, and those who buy as though they possessed nothing,
- and those who weep as though not mourning; and those who rejoice as though not rejoicing; and those who buy as though not possessing;
1Cor.7.31 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- οι: ART,nom,pl,m
- χρωμενοι: VERB,pres,mid/pass,part,nom,pl,m
- τον: ART,acc,sg,m
- κοσμον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ως: ADV
- μη: PART
- καταχρωμενοι·παραγει: VERB,pres,mid/pass,part,nom,pl,m; VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- γαρ: PART
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- σχημα: NOUN,nom,sg,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κοσμου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- τουτου: DEM,gen,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 John 2:15-17 (verbal): Explicitly speaks of not loving the world because 'the world is passing away'—language and theological point about the transience of the present order echoes 1 Cor 7:31.
- Matthew 24:35 (allusion): Jesus' declaration that 'heaven and earth will pass away' parallels Paul's assertion that the 'form of this world' is passing, situating both statements in eschatological expectation.
- Colossians 3:2-3 (thematic): Paulic exhortation to set minds on heavenly things rather than earthly ones complements 1 Cor 7:31's call to use the world without being absorbed by it.
- 2 Corinthians 4:18 (thematic): Contrast between transient, seen things and eternal, unseen realities resonates with the claim that the present world's form is passing away and should not dominate believers.
Alternative generated candidates
- and those who use the world as though they did not use it to the full; for the form of this world is passing away.
- and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it; for the form of this world is passing away.
1Cor.7.32 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Θελω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- δε: CONJ
- υμας: PRON,acc,pl,2
- αμεριμνους: ADJ,acc,pl,m
- ειναι: VERB,pres,act,inf
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- αγαμος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- μεριμνα: NOUN,dat,sg,f
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- πως: ADV
- αρεση: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,sg
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- κυριω·: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Cor 7:33-34 (structural): Immediate parallel in the same paragraph contrasting the unmarried (concerned about pleasing the Lord) with the married (concerned about worldly affairs); develops the same argument about anxieties and devotion.
- Matt 6:25-34 (thematic): Jesus' teaching not to be anxious about worldly needs and to seek God's kingdom first—shared concern with freedom from anxious care to pursue God's priorities.
- Phil 4:6 (verbal): Paulic injunction 'do not be anxious' (μη μεριμνάτε/μὴ μεριμνάτε) echoes the language and ethical stance against anxiety found in 1 Cor 7:32.
- Luke 10:38-42 (thematic): Contrast between Martha's distracted service and Mary's attentive presence to Jesus illustrates the value of undivided devotion to the Lord rather than anxious preoccupation.
- Col 3:23 (thematic): Instruction to work heartily 'as for the Lord' parallels the concern in 1 Cor 7:32 that one's actions and priorities be ordered toward pleasing the Lord.
Alternative generated candidates
- I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man cares for the things of the Lord—how he may please the Lord—
- I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord—how to please the Lord;
1Cor.7.33 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- γαμησας: VERB,aor,act,part,nom,sg,m
- μεριμνα: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κοσμου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- πως: ADV
- αρεση: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,sg
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- γυναικι: NOUN,dat,sg,f
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:32 (verbal): Immediate contrast in the same teaching: the unmarried man is ‘anxious about the things of the Lord,’ paralleling the married man’s anxiety about worldly affairs (verbal and structural antithesis).
- 1 Corinthians 7:34 (verbal): Parallel statement about women: the married woman is concerned about worldly matters and how to please her husband, while the unmarried/virgin is concerned about the Lord—mirror language and contrast to v.33.
- Ephesians 5:28-29 (thematic): Paulic teaching that husbands should love, nourish and cherish their wives—connects to the married man’s concern to please and care for his wife.
- 1 Peter 3:7 (thematic): Instruction that husbands live with understanding and honor their wives; emphasizes considerate treatment of wives analogous to ‘how he may please his wife.’
- Colossians 3:19 (thematic): Directive for husbands not to be harsh with their wives, presupposing a husband’s responsibility toward the wife’s well‑being—related to the concern expressed in 1 Cor 7:33.
Alternative generated candidates
- but the married man cares for the things of the world—how he may please his wife—
- but the married man is anxious about worldly things—how to please his wife— and he is divided.
1Cor.7.34 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- και: CONJ
- μεμερισται: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- και: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- αγαμος: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- παρθενος: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- μεριμνα: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κυριου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- ινα: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- αγια: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- σωματι: NOUN,dat,sg,n
- και: CONJ
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- πνευματι·η: NOUN,dat,sg,n+ART,nom,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- γαμησασα: PART,aor,act,nom,sg,f
- μεριμνα: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- τα: ART,acc,pl,n
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- κοσμου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- πως: ADV
- αρεση: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,sg
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- ανδρι: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:32 (structural): Parallel unit contrasting the unmarried man’s single-minded concern for the Lord with the married person’s divided interests; mirrors the structure/themes of v.34.
- 1 Corinthians 7:33 (verbal): Close verbal and conceptual parallel describing the unmarried man caring for the things of the Lord, echoing the language of devotion vs. worldly concern in v.34.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:23 (verbal): Paulic language of sanctification/preservation of spirit and body; resonates with v.34’s phrasing about being 'holy in body and spirit.'
- Ephesians 5:22-24 (thematic): Discussion of the wife’s relationship to her husband and her comportment in marriage; thematically parallels v.34’s contrast between marital duties and concerns for the world.
- 1 Peter 3:1-2 (thematic): Advises wives that their behavior and disposition can influence husbands; parallels v.34’s observation that married women are occupied with pleasing their husbands and worldly responsibilities.
Alternative generated candidates
- and his interests are divided. The unmarried woman or the virgin cares for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy in body and spirit; but the married woman cares about the things of the world—how she may please her husband.
- And the unmarried woman and the virgin are anxious about the things of the Lord, that they may be holy in both body and spirit; but the married woman is anxious about worldly things—how to please her husband.
1Cor.7.35 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- δε: CONJ
- προς: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- υμων: PRON,gen,pl,2
- αυτων: PRON,gen,pl,m
- συμφορον: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- λεγω: VERB,pres,act,ind,1,sg
- ουχ: PART,neg
- ινα: CONJ
- βροχον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- υμιν: PRON,dat,pl,2
- επιβαλω: VERB,aor,act,subj,1,sg
- αλλα: CONJ
- προς: PREP
- το: ART,acc,sg,n
- ευσχημον: ADJ,acc,sg,n
- και: CONJ
- ευπαρεδρον: ADJ,acc,sg,n
- τω: ART,dat,sg,m
- κυριω: NOUN,dat,sg,m
- απερισπαστως: ADJ,nom,sg,m
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-34 (structural): Immediate context: Paul contrasts the undivided devotion of the unmarried to the Lord with the divided cares of the married, explicating what he means by living 'unhindered' (ἀπερισπαστῶς) for the Lord.
- Matthew 6:24 (thematic): Jesus' teaching that one cannot serve two masters parallels Paul's concern that believers not be divided in loyalty, but live properly and wholly for the Lord rather than being burdened by competing obligations.
- Luke 10:41-42 (thematic): The Martha–Mary contrast (distracted by many things vs. choosing the one necessary thing) echoes Paul's call to be undistracted (ἀπερισπαστῶς) toward the Lord and to live in a way fitting to Him.
- Romans 14:7-8 (verbal): Paul's statement that whether we live or die we belong to the Lord ('ζῶμεν τῷ κυρίῳ') resonates with 1 Cor 7:35's emphasis on conduct 'toward the Lord' and living in a manner worthy and undistracted before Him.
Alternative generated candidates
- I say this for your benefit, not to put a restraint upon you, but to promote orderly devotion and to secure undivided attention to the Lord.
- I say this for your benefit, not to put a restraint upon you, but to promote what is proper and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.
1Cor.7.36 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Ει: PART
- δε: CONJ
- τις: PRON,nom,sg,?
- ασχημονειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- επι: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- παρθενον: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- νομιζει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- εαν: CONJ
- η: ART,nom,sg,f
- υπερακμος: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- και: CONJ
- ουτως: ADV
- οφειλει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- γινεσθαι: VERB,pres,mid,inf
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- θελει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ποιειτω·ουχ: VERB,pres,act,imp,3,sg
- αμαρτανει·γαμειτωσαν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Cor 7:37-38 (structural): Immediate literary continuation that restates and clarifies the same situation about a man’s judgment regarding a virgin—if he decides to keep her a virgin he does well; otherwise he should marry.
- 1 Cor 7:25-35 (thematic): Broader context in which Paul gives extended counsel about virgins, the unmarried, and marriage as a legitimate option rather than sin, framing 7:36 within his overall teaching on singleness and marriage.
- 1 Cor 7:8-9 (verbal): Parallel teaching to the unmarried and widows that it is good to remain single but better to marry than to struggle with passion—same pastoral concern for marriage as the lawful remedy.
- 1 Cor 7:28 (verbal): Explicitly affirms the same point in different particulars: marrying is not sin (’if you marry you have not sinned’), echoing 7:36’s closing clause permitting marriage.
- Matt 19:10-12 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching on celibacy and those who renounce marriage for the kingdom engages the same theme of choosing singleness or marriage for spiritual and practical reasons, a related pastoral tension addressed by Paul.
Alternative generated candidates
- If anyone thinks that he is acting unbecomingly toward his virgin (if she is past the bloom of youth and it must be), let him do what he wishes—he does not sin; let them marry.
- If anyone thinks that he is acting unbecomingly toward his virgin—and if she is past the flower of youth, and it must be so—let him do what he wishes; he does not sin; let them marry.
1Cor.7.37 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ος: PRON,nom,sg,m
- δε: CONJ
- εστηκεν: VERB,perf,act,ind,3,sg
- εν: PREP
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- καρδια: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- αυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- εδραιος: ADJ,nom,sg,m
- μη: PART
- εχων: VERB,pres,act,ptc,nom,sg,m
- αναγκην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εξουσιαν: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- εχει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- περι: PREP
- του: ART,gen,sg,n
- ιδιου: ADJ,gen,sg,m
- θεληματος: NOUN,gen,sg,n
- και: CONJ
- τουτο: PRON,nom,sg,n
- κεκρικεν: VERB,perf,act,ind,3,sg
- εν: PREP
- τη: ART,dat,sg,f
- ιδια: ADJ,acc,pl,n
- καρδια: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- τηρειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- εαυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- παρθενον: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- καλως: ADV
- ποιησει·: VERB,fut,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:36 (verbal): Immediate context: uses similar language about a man’s inward judgment concerning a virgin and whether he should give her in marriage or not.
- 1 Corinthians 7:38 (verbal): Direct follow-up contrast: reiterates the options and commends both keeping a virgin and giving her in marriage, echoing the same evaluative language.
- 1 Corinthians 7:7-9 (thematic): Paul’s broader teaching on singleness and marriage — he expresses his preference for singleness but allows marriage if one cannot exercise self‑control.
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 (thematic): Discusses the advantages of singleness for undivided devotion to the Lord, providing the rationale for Paul’s counsel about choosing to remain unmarried.
- Matthew 19:12 (allusion): Jesus’ sayings about those who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven resonate with the positive valuation of celibate commitment as a legitimate, voluntary choice for spiritual reasons.
Alternative generated candidates
- But the one who stands firm in his heart, having no necessity and possessing authority over his own will, and who has decided in his heart to keep his virgin, does well.
- But the man who firmly resolves in his heart, having no necessity but has power over his own will, and has determined this in his heart to keep his virgin, does well.
1Cor.7.38 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- ωστε: CONJ
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- γαμιζων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- παρθενον: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- εαυτου: PRON,gen,sg,m
- καλως: ADV
- ποιει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- και: CONJ
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- μη: PART
- γαμιζων: VERB,pres,act,part,nom,sg,m
- κρεισσον: ADV,comp
- ποιησει: VERB,fut,act,ind,3,sg
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:36-37 (structural): Immediate context: Paul continues the discussion about marrying a betrothed virgin and the man's disposition, framing the same judgment about marrying versus refraining.
- 1 Corinthians 7:32-35 (thematic): Develops the rationale behind celibacy's advantage: the unmarried can be undistracted in serving the Lord, explaining why remaining single is 'better.'
- 1 Corinthians 7:8-9 (thematic): Paul's earlier counsel that it is good for the unmarried to remain single but that marriage is appropriate if self-control cannot be maintained—balancing endorsement of singleness with permission to marry.
- 1 Corinthians 7:7 (verbal): Paul expresses a personal wish that others were as he is (single), reflecting his preference for singleness which undergirds his evaluative language about 'better' outcomes.
- Matthew 19:11-12 (thematic): Jesus' teaching about those who renounce marriage for the kingdom parallels the positive valuation of celibacy for religious devotion found in Paul’s argument.
Alternative generated candidates
- So then he who gives her in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage does better.
- So then he who gives his virgin in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage does better.
1Cor.7.39 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- Γυνη: NOUN,nom,sg,f
- δεδεται: VERB,perf,mid/pass,ind,3,sg
- εφ᾽οσον: CONJ
- χρονον: NOUN,acc,sg,m
- ζη: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- αυτης·εαν: PRO,gen,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- κοιμηθη: VERB,aor,pass,subj,3,sg
- ο: ART,nom,sg,m
- ανηρ: NOUN,nom,sg,m
- ελευθερα: ADJ,nom,sg,f
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- ω: PRON,dat,sg,m
- θελει: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- γαμηθηναι: VERB,aor,pass,inf
- μονον: ADV
- εν: PREP
- κυριω·: NOUN,dat,sg,m
Parallels
- Romans 7:2-3 (verbal): Paul uses the same marriage-as-law analogy: a married woman is bound to her husband while he lives, but free if he dies; language and legal reasoning closely parallel 1 Cor 7:39.
- Matthew 19:6,9 (thematic): Jesus teaches that marriage creates a binding union that is not to be broken (what God has joined), and permits remarriage only in limited cases—both passages address the permanence of marriage while a spouse lives and the grounds for a new marriage.
- 1 Timothy 5:14 (thematic): Paul (to Timothy) urges younger widows to remarry and manage households, reflecting the acceptability and pastoral encouragement of widows' remarriage found in 1 Cor 7:39.
- 1 Corinthians 7:40 (structural): The immediate follow-up in the same chapter contrasts the freedom to remarry with Paul's personal counsel that a widow may be better off remaining single; together these verses form a unit on widowhood and remarriage.
Alternative generated candidates
- A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives; but if her husband is dead, she is free to marry whom she wishes—only in the Lord.
- A wife is bound as long as her husband lives; but if her husband is dead, she is free to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.
1Cor.7.40 - Details
Original Text
Morphology
- μακαριωτερα: ADJ,comp,nom,sg,f
- δε: CONJ
- εστιν: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- εαν: CONJ
- ουτως: ADV
- μεινη: VERB,pres,act,subj,3,sg
- κατα: PREP
- την: ART,acc,sg,f
- εμην: PRON,acc,sg,1
- γνωμην: NOUN,acc,sg,f
- δοκω: VERB,pres,act,ind,3,sg
- δε: CONJ
- καγω: CONJ+PRON,nom,sg,1
- πνευμα: NOUN,acc,sg,n
- θεου: NOUN,gen,sg,m
- εχειν: VERB,pres,act,inf
Parallels
- 1 Corinthians 7:39 (structural): Immediate context: contrasts the married woman's binding to her husband while he lives with Paul’s subsequent remark that it is ‘happier’ if she remains as she is (leading into v.40).
- 1 Corinthians 7:25-26 (verbal): Paul again frames guidance as his personal judgment rather than a direct Lord's command—'I think'/'I give my opinion'—and claims credibility based on the Lord’s mercy, paralleling the formula in 7:40.
- 1 Corinthians 7:12 (verbal): Paul distinguishes between the Lord’s commands and his own instruction ('to the rest I say, I, not the Lord'), a rhetorical move similar to asserting his own judgment in 7:40.
- 1 Corinthians 2:12 (allusion): Paul’s appeal to having the Spirit of God in 7:40 echoes his broader claim elsewhere that believers have received the Spirit (and thus spiritual insight), supporting his authoritative-sounding personal counsel.
- Matthew 19:10-12 (thematic): Jesus’ teaching about eunuchs and those who remain single 'for the sake of the kingdom' resonates with Paul’s valuation of remaining unmarried as preferable or 'happier' for ministry-oriented reasons.
Alternative generated candidates
- But she will be happier if she remains as she is; and I think I too have the Spirit of God.
- But she is happier if she remains as she is; and so I think I also have the Spirit of God.
Now concerning the matters you wrote about: it is good for a man not to have sexual relations. But because of sexual immorality, let each man have his own wife and each woman her own husband.
The husband should give to his wife her conjugal rights, and likewise the wife to her husband.
The wife does not have authority over her own body, but the husband; and likewise the husband does not have authority over his own body, but the wife.
Do not deprive one another, except by agreement for a limited time, that you may devote yourselves to prayer; then come together again, so that Satan may not tempt you because of your lack of self-control.
I say this by way of concession, not as a command.
I wish that all were as I myself am. But each has his own gift from God, one in this way and one in that.
To the unmarried and to widows I say that it is good for them to remain single even as I. But if they cannot exercise self-control, let them marry; for it is better to marry than to burn with passion.
To the married I give this charge—not I, but the Lord—that the wife should not separate from her husband. But if she does separate, she must remain unmarried or else be reconciled to her husband. And the husband must not divorce his wife.
To the rest I say (I, not the Lord): If any brother has a wife who is an unbeliever, and she consents to live with him, he must not divorce her. And if a woman has a husband who is an unbeliever, and he consents to live with her, she must not divorce him.
For the unbelieving husband is made holy through his wife, and the unbelieving wife is made holy through her believing husband; otherwise your children would be unclean, but now they are holy. But if the unbeliever leaves, let him leave. In such cases the brother or sister is not enslaved; God has called you to peace.
For how do you know, wife, whether you will save your husband? Or how do you know, husband, whether you will save your wife?
Only let each person lead the life that the Lord has assigned to him, and to which God has called him. This is my rule in all the churches.
Was anyone at the time of his calling already circumcised? Let him not seek to remove the marks of circumcision. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not seek circumcision.
For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything; but keeping the commandments of God.
Each one should remain in the condition in which he was called.
Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it. But if you are able to gain your freedom, rather do so.
For the one who was called in the Lord as a slave is the Lord’s freed person; likewise, the one who was called while free is Christ’s slave.
You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.
Brothers, let each person, in whatever condition he was called, remain with God. Now concerning the betrothed: I have no command from the Lord, but I give my judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy is trustworthy.
I think, then, that this is good because of the present distress—that it is good for a person to remain as he is.
Are you bound to a wife? Do not seek to be free. Are you free 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 the flesh, and I spare you. But this I say, brothers: the appointed time has grown short. From now on, let those who have wives live as though they had none,
and those who mourn as though they were not mourning, and those who rejoice as though they were not rejoicing, and those who buy as though they had no possessions,
and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it. For the present form of this world is passing away.
I want you to be free from anxieties. The unmarried man is anxious about the things of the Lord, how to please the Lord;
but the married man is anxious about worldly things, how to please his wife,
and his interests are divided. The unmarried woman and the virgin are anxious about the things of the Lord, that they may be holy both in body and in spirit; but the married woman is anxious about worldly things, how to please her husband.
I say this for your benefit, not to lay any restraint upon you, but to promote what is proper and to secure undistracted devotion to the Lord.
If anyone thinks that he is acting unbecomingly toward his betrothed, if she is past the flower of youth and it must be so, let him do what he wishes; he does not sin—let them marry. But he who stands firm in his heart, having no necessity but has power over his own will, and has determined this in his heart to keep his betrothed, does well. So then he who gives his betrothed in marriage does well, and he who does not give her in marriage does better.
A wife is bound to her husband as long as he lives. But if her husband dies, she is free to marry whom she wishes, only in the Lord.
Yet in my judgment she is happier if she remains as she is; and I think that I too have the Spirit of God.