1 CORINTHIANS 7:40 — KING JAMES VERSION 0
“But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.”
In my judgment, she is happier if she remains as I am. And I think that I too have the Spirit of God. — Paul's final counsel: widows are makariōterē (more blessed) if they remain unmarried, reflecting his own celibate condition. The defensive phrase 'I too have the Spirit of God' (dokō de kagō pneuma theou echein) addresses any who might dismiss Paul's counsel as merely personal preference. His apostolic authority is grounded in the Spirit's confirmation. Yet the permission to remarry remains; the advice is not command.
Church Fathers on 1 Corinthians 7:40
“But if any man think that he behaves himself unseemly toward his virgin.” Here he seems to be talking about marriage; but all that he says relates to virginity; for he allows even a second marriage, saying, “only in the Lord.” Now what means, “in the Lord?” With chastity, with honor: for this is needed every where, and must be pursued for else we cannot see God. Now if we have passed lightly by what he says of virginity, let no one accuse us of negligence; for indeed an…
Nicene & Post-Nicene / Ante-Nicene Fathers translations · public domain
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