The call to singleness is a call to spiritual chastity and once again the twelve disciples ask the wrong question about divorce and remarriage. The interaction between Jesus and HIS twelve concerning the call to chastity does reveal the divine purpose of love and relationships. The striking takeaway from Jesus’ words is that to not be married is a gift. If this is so, then why do single adults, particularly those who have never been married before, see the single life as a burden? Why do Evangelical Christians speak of the single life as a curse?

Is their conclusion that it is better not to marry praiseworthy by Christians? or blameworthy?

We could state this question from the disciples another way. In their view, marriage must surely be a trap, a snare of adultery, rather than a blessing. Marriage is dangerous. What if she burns the biscuits? What if she turns out to be a shrew? Marriage should be better avoided altogether.

Chastity, not singleness, is a gift that only a few can make room for in their lives. A life of genuine chastity means just that. No πορνεία (porneia) … sexual immorality [Matt 19:9]. No immoral bonds outside of marriage. No adultery as a single person.