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

1 CORINTHIANS 7:25KJV
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1 Corinthians 7:25 (KJV)

What does 1 Corinthians 7:25 mean?

1 Corinthians 7:25 says that Paul does not have a direct command from Jesus about people who have never married, but he offers his own trustworthy advice as someone who has received mercy from the Lord. Paul is careful to distinguish between what Jesus directly taught and what he is sharing as his own guidance.

Paul is writing to the Christians in Corinth, answering their questions about marriage and singleness. In this verse, Paul addresses those who are "virgins"—meaning unmarried people—by making it clear he is not passing on a specific command from Jesus, but rather giving his considered judgment as someone faithful to God. This sets the tone for the practical advice that follows in the rest of the chapter.

The Greek behind 1 Corinthians 7:25

  • The word "virgins" (παρθένων, parthenōn) refers to unmarried people, most often young women, but here likely includes both men and women who have not married. This clarifies the group Paul is addressing.
  • "Commandment" (ἐπιταγήν, epitagēn) means a direct order or instruction. Paul’s use of this word shows he is not relaying a rule from Jesus, but offering his own perspective.
  • "Judgment" (γνώμην, gnōmēn) means an opinion or considered advice. Paul is being transparent about the difference between divine command and personal counsel.
  • "Mercy" (ἠλεημένος, ēleēmenos) highlights that Paul sees his ability to give faithful advice as a result of God’s kindness, not his own merit.

Why 1 Corinthians 7:25 matters

  • This verse helps readers see the difference between Jesus’ direct teachings and Paul’s inspired advice, which is important for understanding how to read the rest of the chapter.
  • Paul’s humility and honesty about the source of his guidance encourages readers to weigh his words thoughtfully, rather than treating them as strict rules.
  • The verse sets the stage for practical, pastoral wisdom about relationships, showing that Christian teaching can include both clear commands and wise, Spirit-led counsel.

Where else these words appear

“commandment” Greek G2003 · used in 7 verses

  • Romans 16:26 But now is made manifest, and by the scriptures of the prophets, according to the commandment of the everlasting God, made known to all nations for the obedience of faith:
  • 2 Corinthians 8:8 I speak not by commandment, but by occasion of the forwardness of others, and to prove the sincerity of your love.
  • Titus 1:3 But hath in due times manifested his word through preaching, which is committed unto me according to the commandment of God our Saviour;

“judgment” Greek G1106 · used in 8 verses

  • Acts 20:3 And there abode three months. And when the Jews laid wait for him, as he was about to sail into Syria, he purposed to return through Macedonia.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:40 But she is happier if she so abide, after my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.
  • Philemon 1:14 But without thy mind would I do nothing; that thy benefit should not be as it were of necessity, but willingly.

“virgins” Greek G3933 · used in 13 verses

  • Matthew 1:23 Behold, a virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted is, God with us.
  • Luke 1:27 To a virgin espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
  • 1 Corinthians 7:36 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.

“mercy” Greek G1653 · used in 28 verses

  • Matthew 5:7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.
  • Mark 10:48 And many charged him that he should hold his peace: but he cried the more a great deal, Thou Son of David, have mercy on me.
  • Romans 11:31 Even so have these also now not believed, that through your mercy they also may obtain mercy.