First Corinthians 7:1-7 has sometimes been interpreted as a celibate apostles’ concession of marriage to Christians who otherwise can’t practice self-control. In previous Daily Words, I have argued against this (mis)interpretation. In review, here are my three reasons: First, verse 1 states the Corinthians’ motto of extreme asceticism, “It is good for a man not to touch a woman.” The NIV mistranslates this verse as, “It is good for a man not to marry.” In turn, this mistranslation frames the passage with the wrong question. Verses 2-6 do not answer the question, “Should unmarried persons marry?” but “Should married persons … Continue reading Celibacy as Spiritual Gift (1 Corinthians 7:7)