•Despite the
norm being to fill and rule the earth, singleness for the Kingdom was encouraged
by both
Jesus and Paul (Matt. 19:11-12; 1 Cor. 7:1, 8-9).
This enables focus upon the work of God, instead of upon the marriage
partner (1 Cor. 7:32-35).
•Paul was also
concerned about the liability of marriage in times of persecution (1 Cor.
7:26). The world climate may or may not
be similar today.