Translations
Modern
I say this as a concession, not as a command.
Traditional
But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.
Literal
Now I say this by way of concession, not by way of command.
Latin
Hoc autem dico secundum indulgentiam, non secundum imperium.
Original
Greek
English
I say this as a concession, not as a command.
Notes
Paul prefers being single, but he acknowledges that both marriage and being single are gifts from God to different people.
Paul often says that true Christians, as servants of Christ, belong completely to Christ for his service. Because of this, he suggests Christians stay single. However, he admits that getting married is not a sin.
Theme notes and profiles
Paul (Saul) Biblical Marriage Holiness and Sexual Purity Human Sexuality
Glossary
Acts of Paul and Thecla Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) First Letter to the Corinthians Love
Topics
Continence: General Scriptures Concerning Marriage: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Stoicism: Paul Teaches: Celibacy Wife: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To Word of God: Unclassified Scriptures Relating To