ARE WE COMMANDED TO BE MARRIED? CAN'T WE JUST STAY SINGLE AND SERVE THE LORD?

[HOPE - Psalm 43:5]

Take a moment to read I Corinthians chapter 7... read the entire chapter. Does this passage answer the question posed here in this discussion?

Didn't God notice that it was not good for man to be alone, provided Adam with Eve and commanded them to be fruitful and multiply?

Does I Corinthians 7 contradict the Genesis institution of marriage?

Is it ok to be single and satisfied with your singleness?

If this is the lifestyle one chooses, should they be dating?

[James Pierce]

Does I Corinthians 7 contradict the Genesis institution of marriage?

1 Corinthians has some things stated that are actually Paul's opinion, and not what the law of God states. Paul said he wished all men were like him(free from marriage), and he gives great arguments for being single. Yet, Paul states that each man has their own calling. Not all men can handle being single, and marriage is not for all people. Each man has their own calling in this area.

Is it ok to be single and satisfied with your singleness?

Yes, its ok to be single and satisfied. If this is your calling, and you are able to handle it, then you shall be alright being single. By being single, you can now devote your whole time to God.

If this is the lifestyle one chooses, should they be dating?

There is nothing wrong with dating. In fact, in the law, it states that you must be engaged to the person for one year. I would assume that while they are in that situation, they can get to know each other. This is what dating really is---knowing each other.

[HOPE - Psalm 43:5]

What I find interesting is a person who has committed to a lifestyle of singleness but chooses to "engage" themselves with others who are dating for the purpose of getting to know a person as leading towards marriage.

Is it a matter of symantics here? Why call it a date if you are just hanging out and not wanting to get married at all. Isn't it a bit deceptive to do such things???

I say, give your disclaimer to the person whether you are male or female so that they can make an informed decision as to whether or not they want to invest the time in getting to know you in "that way".

[HOPE - Psalm 43:5]

There is something I want to re-address with you. You brought up a good point. You said that the law states that a couple should be engaged for a 1 year befoe getting married. Where is that stated in the law?