CELIBACY
In the divine scheme of things, the ideal is for human beings to marry (Gen. 2:18; 1 Tim. 5:14). Sometimes, however, it is not advisable to marry. One such time would be during severe persecution (1 Cor. 7:26, 35, 40).
Even then, however, marriage between two eligible people (Mt. 19:9) is not a sin (1 Cor. 7:36). Nor is remaining single sinful. An eligible person may marry at any time, and to forbid a legitimate marital union is a mark of apostasy (1 Tim. 4:1ff).
The dogma that the celibate state is holier than the married state is a religious superstition, not Scripture.
Related Articles
This discussion addresses whether or not a Christian should marry “out of the faith.”
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The Alleged Perpetual Virginity of MaryThe recent discovery of an ossuary (bone box) in Jerusalem that contained the phrase “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus” has rekindled the controversy as to whether Mary had children other than Jesus. Catholicism claims she did not. What does the actual evidence reveal?
What Is the “Gift” of Celibacy in 1 Corinthians 7:7?It is never right to do wrong. But wrong-doing is compounded even more when one perverts Scripture in seeking to rationalize his evil. This week’s Q&A segment deals with the “gift” of celibacy. What is it?
Dealing Treacherously with One’s Spouse
Marriage is not a mere civil institution; it is a covenant agreement between two eligible people before God. Far too frequently, it becomes very “uncivil.” People who desire to please the Creator, will work hard to make their
marriages stable.
