The theological question of singleness is worth exploring not simply because we may find ourselves or someone dear to us in the single state, but because in exploring it we gain greater understanding of the larger macro-theological themes of Scripture. The payoff is not primarily therapeutic, but transformative in what it has to teach us about the nature of God and the grandeur of his plan for humanity. The upshot is that this is a topic worth exploring because the journey has much to teach us beyond the topic itself. For though we begin with a theological question about singleness, we soon find ourselves standing before the grand and comprehensive plan of God purposed in Christ for all creation. From there we return, blessed and enriched in our understanding not only of singleness, but also of marriage, offspring, family and everything else in God’s created order.
The topic is also important because it does touch so many of us, either at present, or in the past, or possibly in the future. We all begin our life as single and we all will exit it single. The majority of us find ourselves unmarried as we approach death’s door. Even those in long and very blessed marriages recognize that circumstances can suddenly tear us from our spouses with no advanced warning. So it is perhaps the stark reality of life in this age that compels us to take fresh comfort in this distinctive New Testament teaching. And it is reason enough that we should seek to understand the deeper theological truths to which it points.
It is my hope and prayer that my work can be a positive step forward not only in theological exploration of these themes, but also in cultural engagement for the benefit of those both inside and outside the church. It is to that end that I also hope and pray that this blog can be glorifying to God and edifying to his people.
Soli Deo Gloria