Paul applies the principle of staying where God has called you to circumcision. In the past, circumcision was required for Jewish males, but Paul emphasizes that it is no longer a concern for those who are called to be Christians. The important thing now is to keep the commandments of God. This shift is significant, as circumcision was previously considered one of the essential commandments. Under the new covenant, God's people are no longer bound by the old covenant but are now under the law of Christ.

Paul also applies the principle of staying where God has called you to the issue of slavery. If a bondservant can become free, they should take it. The paraphrased message of the passage is that bondservants need not worry about remaining in bondage because they are already free in the Lord. Conversely, free individuals are now enslaved to Christ, having been bought at the cost of Christ's death.

Paul once again clarifies that Jesus did not directly address these issues during His time on earth. However, Paul shares his reasoned opinion without issuing commands to the Corinthians. This situation revolves around wisdom, allowing Christians to make different choices.

Paul reiterates the principle of "staying where God has called you" (see verses 17, 20, 24). The phrase "in view of the present distress" qualifies this principle, particularly concerning the betrothed, and plays a crucial role in interpreting verses 25-40. "The present distress" likely refers to a grain famine in AD 51, resulting in food shortages in Greece that may have persisted for up to five years. This crisis probably brought about social unrest, riots, economic uncertainty, and panic buying.

Living through social upheaval is comparatively easier for a single person, as married individuals have more responsibilities. Therefore, what Paul recommends in verses 26-38 directly applies to the Corinthians in light of the "present distress" and should not be universally applied to all situations. Every piece of advice in this passage considers the "present distress" experienced by the Corinthian Christians. Therefore, it would be incorrect to infer from this passage that it is always more strategic for a Christian to be single or that the most committed Christians are celibate.

Paul does not suggest that couples should remain indefinitely engaged without getting married. If that were the case, he would advise them to break off their engagement, which he does not do here or in verses 36-38. Instead, Paul recommends that they wait to marry until the "present distress" subsides. Paul qualifies that marrying is not sinful, so marriage is a valid option. However, he warns that those who marry will face worldly troubles, and he wants to spare them.

Given that time is short, Christians should prioritize eternal realities over temporary ones. Marriage, mourning, rejoicing, acquiring possessions, and using worldly things are not inherently sinful; they are important and can bring glory to God. However, they are not ultimately important; they are relatively important. The tensions we experience now are part of this world and not the next. Christians must view these activities from their proper perspective as they strategize about what to do, especially in times of crisis.

Unmarried individuals can serve the Lord with fewer distractions, while married individuals have additional responsibilities to their spouses and children. Paul's guidance is based on his experiences as a pioneering missionary who has encountered various hardships. He desires the Corinthians to wholeheartedly serve the Lord without divided devotion. Paul does not claim that marriage is universally inferior to singleness but suggests that considering the present difficulties, it is generally beneficial for engaged couples to marry. However, refraining from marriage may be even better for now.

Paul also expresses his belief that a widow would find greater contentment if she chooses not to remarry, drawing on his perspective, possibly as a widower. Some Corinthians may assume they do not need Paul's advice because they possess the Spirit of God. Paul's concluding statement, "I think that I too have the Spirit of God," serves as a cautionary reminder (perhaps with a touch of friendly sarcasm) to not disregard his well-considered counsel.