Singleness

BULLETIN ARTICLE – 21 MAY 2017


The Apostle Paul addressed in 1 Corinthians the challenges, advantages and the pressures of singleness.
1. Singles can handle the pressures of life better in times of crisis. Paul suggested that being single is not nearly as bad as some might think. Rather, in the midst of a difficult period of time it might be better to be single. The city of Corinth faced difficult times of famine when Paul wrote about “present crisis” and “troubles of this life”. Today in Singapore, we are blessed not to deal with such troubles such as the shortage of food, but are instead challenged by financial difficulties, busyness, materialism, etc. These are examples of modern stresses that we face which will bring our focus away from God. Being in a marriage where two distinct individuals are bounded together in a world filled with these challenges, the problems of sinful human nature can be multiplied and thus marriage is definitely not for the faint hearted. Much time and work needed to put in a marriage could act as a distraction away from focusing on service to God and therefore, Paul advised that it is good for Christians to thoughtfully consider the option of singleness.
2. Singles can maintain spiritual priorities with having fewer distractions. In light of the transitory nature of the world, Paul challenged tha Corinthian Christians to live with the end in mind. He uses phrases such as “time has been shortened” and “this world is passing away” to remind us of the brevity of life. As Christians, we are commanded to fulfil the Great Commission and as an unmarried person, there is more time in doing so as one is able to devote more time to Jesus. A marriage requires immense sacrifice, time and energy. Thus, a marriage relationship can keep us from devoting ourselves more fully to Jesus. There is a need to balance time among God, the spouse, children and work, yet at the same time be so consumed with God at each area of life. Hence, singles have much less distractions in life and will be able to dedicate more time to service to God, the Church and the mission of Christ.
3. Singles have the option of marriage. Ultimately, Paul points out that that each person is free to decide whether to marry or remain single. Everyone has the freedom to choose, so the choice is left up to each individual to make. Both options are viable and permissible.
In summary, Apostle Paul challenged Christians to consider remaining single, so that they might serve God more devotedly and without distraction. Our decision about whether we should marry should not be made solely on the basis of what we are free to do but on the basis of what course of action best enables us to serve God. Let us not lose sight of the fact that the time is short and let us make those choices which best advance the gospel and which enable us to serve God wholeheartedly.