1 Corinthians 7:37 Commentary and Bible Study

Paul is referring to the case of a father who has decided to keep his virgin daughter unmarried. He is not constrained in any way, but has made a decision after taking into consideration the whole situation, including the wishes of his daughter. As Calvin says, the father must also have considered what Paul said before: that only those who have the necessary gift from the Lord should remain single. The father is not under necessity, which means that he is not under pressure to make a decision which goes against what he really feels is right. In this case, she does not even want to be married, for if she did, there may well be some necessity. He has power over his will. There are no financial incentives which are influencing him one way or the other. He is doing it for the best and not holding out for what he considers a better match. He has decided that it is right to keep his daughter unmarried. Given those conditions, Paul stands by the decision of the father.