1 Corinthians 7:8

8 But I say to them, that be not wedded, and to widows [and widows], it is good to them, if they dwell so as I.

1 Corinthians 7:8 Meaning and Commentary

1 Corinthians 7:8

I say therefore to the unmarried and widows
Not by way of command, but advice: by the "unmarried" he means, either such men who never were in a married state, or else such who had been married, but their wives were dead; which latter sense seems more agreeable, since they are joined with "widows", who had lost their husbands:

it is good for them if they abide;
unmarried, and do not change their condition any more; not that it was sinful to marry again, for he allows of it in the next verse, in case they have not the gift of continence; and therefore "good" here, is not opposed to evil, only signifies that it would be better for them, more expedient and profitable for them; they would be more free from the cares of life, have less trouble, and be more at leisure to serve the Lord; and which he knew by experience, and therefore, proposes himself as an example:

even as I;
that is, as he was then; for at that time it seems certain that he had no wife; though whether he had had one, and she was now dead, or whether he had never been married, may be matter of dispute; the former seems most agreeable, since he proposes himself as an example to widowers and widows; and having known what a married and single state both were, was better able to give his judgment of both, and proper advice to such persons which must come with more force and strength, and a better grace, from such an one.

1 Corinthians 7:8 In-Context

6 But I say this thing as giving leave, not by commandment. [+Forsooth I say this thing by indulgence, not after commandment.]

7 For I will, that all men be as myself. But each man hath his proper gift of God; one thus, and another thus.

8 But I say to them, that be not wedded, and to widows [and widows], it is good to them, if they dwell so as I.

9 And if they contain not themselves, be they wedded; for it is better to be wedded, than to be burnt.

10 But to them that be joined in matrimony, I command, not I, but the Lord, that the wife depart not from the husband;