The Place of Celibacy

Derek insists the ultimate goal of a Christian is not marriage but doing God’s will. Jesus Himself remained unmarried on earth. Celibacy can be natural (physical, psychological, or sociological factors) or spiritual: a supernatural charisma sovereignly bestowed (as with Paul) or a deliberate self-renunciation for the Kingdom’s sake (Matt 19:12). Fighting God’s call to singleness brings frustration; surrendering brings peace and fruitfulness. Marriage is good, but consecrated singleness—freely accepted—releases extraordinary spiritual energy for God’s service. Each believer must settle whether lifelong celibacy is God’s plan and trust His grace is sufficient.