Devine Scripture

1 Corinthians 7:40

What does 1 Corinthians 7:40 mean?

A plain-English look at 1 Corinthians 7:40 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What 1 Corinthians 7:40 means

Paul concludes that, in his judgment, a widow will be happier if she remains as she is—single—given their circumstances. He adds, “I think that I also have the Spirit of God,” affirming that his counsel carries spiritual credibility, even if it is not a direct command. His aim is her well-being and joy, not austerity. Singleness after widowhood can offer peace, freedom from new cares, and space for focused service. Yet his earlier permission stands: remarriage “in the Lord” is allowed. The final note reinforces the chapter’s tone—pastoral wisdom under the Spirit’s guidance, seeking the church’s profit and undistracted devotion to Christ.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

But she is happier if she abide as she is, after my judgment: and I think that I also have the Spirit of God.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

But she is happier if she abide as she is, after my judgment: and I think that I also have the Spirit of God.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

But it will be better for her to keep as she is, in my opinion: and it seems to me that I have the Spirit of God.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

and she is happier if she may so remain--according to my judgment; and I think I also have the Spirit of God.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

But more blessed shall she be, if she so remain, according to my counsel. And I think that I also have the spirit of God.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

But she is happier if she so remain, according to my judgment; but I think that I also haveGod's Spirit.

Context

This last verse closes the chapter, echoing earlier preferences for singleness in view of present distress (verses 26–28) while upholding freedom within God’s boundaries (verse 39). It mirrors Paul’s broader method in the chapter: distinguishing between the Lord’s commands and his trustworthy judgment, always aimed at believers’ spiritual advantage. With this, Paul ties together instructions on marriage, singleness, mixed marriages, social conditions, and undivided devotion, leaving the Corinthians with a Christ-centered framework for life’s varied states.

v.39A wife is bound for so long time as her husband liveth; but if the husband be dead, she is free to be married to whom she will; only in the Lord.

v.40This passage

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • 2 Corinthians 10:8

    For though I should glory somewhat abundantly concerning our authority (which the Lord gave for building you up, and not for casting you down), I shall not be put to shame:

  • 1 Corinthians 7:1

    Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:6

    But this I say by way of concession, not of commandment.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:25

    Now concerning virgins I have no commandment of the Lord: but I give my judgment, as one that hath obtained mercy of the Lord to be trustworthy.

  • 1 Corinthians 9:1

    Am I not free? am I not an apostle? have I not seen Jesus our Lord? are not ye my work in the Lord?

  • 1 Corinthians 7:35

    And this I say for your own profit; not that I may cast a snare upon you, but for that which is seemly, and that ye may attend upon the Lord without distraction.

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