A Church United: Understanding Singleness and Our Shared Humanity
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
As members of the body of Christ, we owe our existence to God’s grace and glory. We are a supernatural presence, made up of imperfect humans, yet called to steward one another well. In today’s culture, the rise of singleness in our churches demands attention. It’s not just an issue for singles; the Bible’s teachings on singleness concern the entire church.
The Bible’s Teaching on Singleness: A Shared Responsibility
In 1 Corinthians 7, Paul addresses different groups within the church, including the unmarried, widows, and married couples. While he speaks directly to each group, his words are meant for the entire church to hear. As a body, we are interconnected; what affects one member affects us all. The Scriptures on singleness, though directed to singles, are still God’s word to the rest of us.
The Reality of Singleness: A Shared Experience
Most married couples will one day experience singleness again due to bereavement or divorce. This reality is sobering, but it underscores the importance of understanding singleness from a biblical perspective. A ring on our finger is no guarantee that we won’t be single in the future. By thinking carefully about singleness now, we can better support one another in our shared humanity.
The Local Church: A Body United
As Paul reminds us, we belong to each other (Romans 12:4-5). When one member struggles, we all suffer. This interdependence means that we need to understand the Christian life from each other’s perspectives. By valuing the unique opportunities that singleness affords, we can contribute to the flourishing of the church as a whole.
Breaking Down Misconceptions: A Path to Understanding
By responding to common misconceptions about singleness, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the positive vision the Bible gives us. This understanding is essential for the entire church, as it allows us to bless one another and live out our shared humanity.
May we not neglect what Scripture has to say about singleness. Instead, let us seek to understand and value the unique experiences of all members of our body, that we might be a church united in our pursuit of God’s glory.
Yours in Him,
Sam Allberry
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