Singleness and God Other Reading: 1 Corinthians 7:25-40
Topic Study: Man & Woman and God
Summary
Is it OK to be single (unmarried)?
1. God's word and singleness. Old testament talks about marriage and our roles. People were concerned about not having children. (eg Abraham) Today, expectation to be a complete person one must be married and have children. The New Testament shows there is another way to look at all this. The emphasis to be complete, is rather on our relationship to God. This relationship with God will continue after the marriage ends. (see Mtt 22:30). Human marriage is for this world and life only. (see also 1 Cor 7:25-28).
2. Some specifics relating to being single.
(a) Challenges - (i) Loneliness. (ii) Sexual purity. (iii) Self-centeredness. (iv) Lack of accountability.
(b) Opportunities - (i) Use of time. (ii) Can serve Christ in a way that suits them. (iii) Can have a wider and deeper relationships.
3. Life in the Church. Don't treat single people differently, and be inclusive. Try not to ask inappropriate questions. Don't portray marriage as the ultimate.
