Elaine

NN,
It would be hard to see Paul characterizing the nature of marriage in the way you do, notably in respect to his own singleness in 1 Corinthians 7. He speaks to the single’s freedom from anxieties and freedom to serve with “undivided devotion”. The married man has responsibilities that “divide” his attention. This is balanced by Paul’s affirmation that marital responsibilities are good and also a “gift” (7:6). Paul teaches neither singleness nor marriage is inherently more spiritual or holy, although the freedoms of singleness lead him to say, “I wish that all men were as I am” (7:8). No pining away on his part about not being able to fully reflect anything. There are many single Christians for whom Jesus alone is sufficient for ultimate intimacy.

Christianity was unique among religions in that it held up single adulthood as a viable way of life. Nearly all religions and cultures made an absolute value of the family and of the bearing of children. There was no honor without family honor, and there was no lasting significance without leaving heirs. By contrast, the early church not only did not pressure people to marry but it institutionally supported poor widows so they did not have to remarry. The ‘sacrifice’ made by singles was not merely ‘giving up sex’ but in giving up heirs. Clearly expressing their belief that one’s future is not guaranteed by the family, but by the kingdom of God.