36 But if any man think that he behaveth himself uncomely toward his virgin, if she pass the flower of her age, and need so require, let him do what he will, he sinneth not: let them marry.

Other Translations of 1 Corinthians 7:36

New International Version

36 If anyone is worried that he might not be acting honorably toward the virgin he is engaged to, and if his passions are too strongOr "if she is getting beyond the usual age for marriage" and he feels he ought to marry, he should do as he wants. He is not sinning. They should get married.

English Standard Version

36 If anyone thinks that he is not behaving properly toward his betrothed,Greek virgin; also verses 37, 38 if hisOr her passions are strong, and it has to be, let him do as he wishes: let them marry--it is no sin.

The Message

36 If a man has a woman friend to whom he is loyal but never intended to marry, having decided to serve God as a "single," and then changes his mind, deciding he should marry her, he should go ahead and marry. It's no sin; it's not even a "step down" from celibacy, as some say.

New King James Version

36 But if any man thinks he is behaving improperly toward his virgin, if she is past the flower of youth, and thus it must be, let him do what he wishes. He does not sin; let them marry.

New Living Translation

36 But if a man thinks that he's treating his fiancée improperly and will inevitably give in to his passion, let him marry her as he wishes. It is not a sin.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:36

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:36-40

(Read 1 Corinthians 7:36-40)

The apostle is thought to give advice here about the disposal of children in marriage. In this view, the general meaning is plain. Children should seek and follow the directions of their parents as to marriage. And parents should consult their children's wishes; and not reckon they have power to do with them, and dictate just as they please, without reason. The whole is closed with advice to widows. Second marriages are not unlawful, so that it is kept in mind, to marry in the Lord. In our choice of relations, and change of conditions, we should always be guided by the fear of God, and the laws of God, and act in dependence on the providence of God. Change of condition ought only to be made after careful consideration, and on probable grounds, that it will be to advantage in our spiritual concerns.