1 Corinthians 7:34

There is difference also between a wife and a virgin. The unmarried woman careth for the things of the Lord, that she may be holy both in body and in spirit: but she that is married careth for the things of the world, how she may please her husband.

Cross-reference

In 1 Corinthians 7:8, Paul recommends the unmarried state, which 1 Cor 7:34 then explains by comparing devotion.

In 1 Corinthians 7:25, Paul introduces his counsel on virgins, the very topic that 1 Cor 7:34 elaborates.

In 1 Corinthians 7:35, Paul clarifies his motive: he teaches about marriage and singleness not to restrict but to enable undivided devotion to the Lord.

Luke 2:37 Parallel

Luke 2:37 shows Anna, a widow, constantly worshiping — a concrete example of the undivided devotion Paul commends in unmarried women.

Romans 12:1 Related theme

In Romans 12:1, presenting the body as a living sacrifice mirrors the unmarried woman's devotion to be holy in body and spirit.

In 1 Thessalonians 5:23, the prayer for spirit, soul, and body to be blameless directly parallels the unmarried woman's goal of holiness in body and spirit.

1 Timothy 3:5 Related theme

1 Timothy 3:5 ties family management to church leadership — echoing Paul's point that marriage brings worldly responsibilities that divide focus.

Romans 6:13 Related theme

In Romans 6:13, presenting members as instruments of righteousness parallels the unmarried woman's aim for holiness in body.

Philippians 1:20 Related theme

In Philippians 1:20, Paul's desire for Christ to be magnified in his body echoes the unmarried woman's aim for bodily holiness.