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).

• 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.