Why did Paul not encourage marriage for believers?
Paul did not encourage marriage for believers because persecution was so prevalent. It is easier to die for one's faith if single than if one has a loved one to worry about. That was his only reason for this counsel, given the pressure his converts faced.
Les explains that Paul's converts, coming out of paganism in places like Galatia, Philippi, Thessalonica, Berea, Athens, Corinth, and Rome, immediately faced persecution. Because of that constant pressure, Paul did not really encourage marriage. As Les puts it, it is much easier to die for your faith if you are single than if you have a loved one to worry about. Les says that was his only reason. He also notes that many professing Christians today, even after years of teaching, might not remain faithful if such persecution came, which highlights the seriousness of the situation Paul addressed.
More Questions
Was Paul against marriage and family when he wished all men were single?
Paul had a reason for wishing all men were single, but it was not to put down or forbid marriage and family.
When does Paul begin teaching about Christian marriage in 1 Corinthians?
At this point in the study Paul picks up a new theme, the whole concept of Christian marriage, which will be taken up in the next taping session.