But she is happier if she so remains, according to my judgment: and I think also that I have the Spirit of God.
Now concerning the things of which you wrote to me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.
And this I speak for your own benefit; not to restrain you, but for that which is suitable, and that you may serve the Lord without distraction.
But I speak this by permission, and not as a commandment.
I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they remain even as I.
I have become a fool in glorying; you have compelled me: for I ought to have been commended by you: for in nothing am I behind the very chief apostles, though I am nothing.
Since you seek a proof of Christ speaking in me, who is not weak towards you, but is mighty in you.
And in this I give my advice: for this is helpful for you, who began already, not only to do, but also to be eager a year ago.
He therefore that despises these things, does not despise man, but God, who has also given to us his Holy Spirit.