8 Now to the unmarried[1] and the widows I say: It is good for them to stay unmarried, as I do.

Other Translations of 1 Corinthians 7:8

King James Version

8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.

English Standard Version

8 To the unmarried and the widows I say that it is good for them to remain single as I am.

The Message

8 I do, though, tell the unmarried and widows that singleness might well be the best thing for them, as it has been for me.

New King James Version

8 But I say to the unmarried and to the widows: It is good for them if they remain even as I am;

New Living Translation

8 So I say to those who aren't married and to widows-it's better to stay unmarried, just as I am.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:8

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:1-9

(Read 1 Corinthians 7:1-9)

The apostle tells the Corinthians that it was good, in that juncture of time, for Christians to keep themselves single. Yet he says that marriage, and the comforts of that state, are settled by Divine wisdom. Though none may break the law of God, yet that perfect rule leaves men at liberty to serve him in the way most suited to their powers and circumstances, of which others often are very unfit judges. All must determine for themselves, seeking counsel from God how they ought to act.