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Jul 30
35m 19s

Is There a Case for Staying Single. (1 C...

Pastor Jeremy R McCandless
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🎙 Welcome

Welcome to The Bible Project Daily Podcast. In today’s episode, we're looking at a topic that’s often misunderstood, frequently underexplored, and sometimes even unfairly dismissed—the biblical case for staying single.

While most cultures—and often the church—promote marriage as the default route to a fulfilled life, the Apostle Paul offers us a radically different perspective in 1 Corinthians 7. Far from seeing singleness as second-best or a temporary waiting room for marriage, Paul calls it a gift, a calling, and even, at times, the preferable path.

Whether you’re single, married, widowed, or divorced—this episode is for you. Because Paul’s wisdom here isn’t just about relationship status. It’s about living with focus, serving with freedom, and anchoring our lives in Christ, especially when the world around us is in turmoil.

So, wherever you are and whatever your story, I invite you to listen in, lean into Scripture, and rediscover the surprising beauty and purpose of a life wholly devoted to the Lord.

📄 Episode Summary:
In this episode, we explore Paul’s surprising and Spirit-inspired case for singleness. In a culture that often views marriage as the default or even only path to fulfillment, Paul lifts up celibacy as a valid and even preferable calling for some believers, particularly in times of crisis. But this message is not just for the unmarried. It’s for the entire Church.

We’ll consider:

  • Why Paul speaks so positively about singleness
  • What he means by “the present distress” and how that informs wise decision-making
  • The freedom and focus that can come with a single life
  • How both singleness and marriage are gifts that can glorify God
  • Why the ultimate goal of every believer isn’t marriage—but Christ Himself

Key Themes:

  • Biblical wisdom for life’s seasons
  • Singleness as a sacred calling
  • Discipleship, freedom, and undistracted devotion
  • Living in light of eternity

Who This Is For:

  • Singles navigating their calling
  • Married couples who want to better support others
  • Widows, widowers, and divorcees processing new seasons
  • Church leaders looking to shape a more biblical culture around relationships

Final Encouragement:
You are not on hold. You are not incomplete. Whatever your status, you are called, loved, and needed in the body of Christ—right now.

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