1 Corinthians 7:8
I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.
Cross-reference
In 7:26, Paul repeats the advice to stay single due to 'present distress' — reinforcing 7:8's recommendation.
In 7:27, Paul tells the unmarried not to seek a wife — directly applying 7:8's principle.
In 7:32, Paul gives a reason: unmarried are less distracted by worldly concerns — supporting 7:8.
In 7:34, Paul contrasts unmarried and married women, showing divided interests — a reason for 7:8.
In 7:35, Paul explains his motive: undivided devotion — clarifying that 7:8 is for benefit, not command.
In 7:38, Paul concludes that refraining from marriage is 'even better' — directly supporting 7:8's preference.
In 7:40, Paul says a widow is happier if she stays unmarried — reaffirming 7:8's advice to remain single.
In 7:1, Paul quotes the Corinthians' view that it's good not to marry — 7:8 applies that to the unmarried.
In 1 Timothy 5:14, Paul advises younger widows to marry — opposite of 7:8's recommendation to stay single.
In Matthew 19:10, disciples say 'better not to marry' — a parallel sentiment to 7:8's preference for celibacy.