1 Corinthians 7:25

Now concerning virgins. have no commandment of the Lord: but. give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be trustworthy.

'Now concerning virgins' -'the opening words of this phrase suggest that this was. specific question raised in the Corinthian's letter.' (F.F. Bruce p. 73)

'Virgins' -in the context we find advice given to both unmarried men (1 Corinthians 7:26-28a) and women (1 Corinthians 7:28).

Point to Note:

It seems that some in Corinth were struggling with. question. 'Should an engaged young woman or man, go ahead and follow through with the marriage?'

'I have no commandment of the Lord' -i.e. no expressed precept (Alford p. 1016) 'Paul is quick to let us know what God commands and what he doesn't. Wish preachers in general were that quick.' (McGuiggan p. 112) 'Now he repeats that the Lord did not address this concern of their's either. But more that than seems to be intended here; the issue itself lies in the category of concerns for which there are no commands of any kind, just advice or judgements.' (Fee p. 328)

'but. give my judgement, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be trustworthy.' -'and it is that of. man who, through the Lord's mercy, is deserving of your confidence.' (Mon)

'Paul's judgement is not thereby to be understood as unimportant.' (Fee p. 328)

Points to Note:

1. This section of Scripture contains inspired advice. And yet, it is advice that one could incorporate into their own life, or not use. (1 Corinthians 7:28) And as with all good advice, we may pay the price for not taking it, but that is our liberty. (1 Corinthians 7:28)

2. Paul refused to allow "advice" to rise to the level of. commandment.

3. Love and concern are Paul's motives for giving this advice. It appears in. couple of places that some in Corinth were being "pressured" not to marry. Paul reminds them, 'he doesn't want to pressure anyone' (1 Corinthians 7:32). In addition, he gives this advice from the motive of, 'what would be the best for them' (1 Corinthians 7:35)