Concerning the Unmarried

²⁵ Now about virgins: I have no command from the Lord,^(A) but I give a judgment as one who by the Lord’s mercy^(B) is trustworthy.

¹³ Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor^(A) and a violent man, I was shown mercy^(B) because I acted in ignorance and unbelief.^(C)

¹⁶ But for that very reason I was shown mercy^(A) so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience^(B) as an example for those who would believe^(C) in him and receive eternal life.^(D)