Walter Kirchschläger Marriage as Christian Vocation: A Pauline Approach (Part 3) (Summary) Even though it may seem new today to speak of marriage as a vocation - a word traditionally used for a celibate calling - this idea is already found in the letters of Paul. The article sets out first to describe Paul's understanding, then to relate it to the broader biblical notion of vocation, and finally to show the similarities and differences between marriage and a celibate lifestyle. In 1 Cor 7,1-7, Paul develops a noteworthy understanding of marriage, despite his own personal preference for a celibate life. This can be seen in three instructions (7,2-4) that – in spite of their cultural embeddedness in the ancient outlook of Corinth – describe a strict mutuality and are open to a marriage based on partnership founded on the equal dignity of the baptized (see Gal 3,26-28). This further clarifies Paul's position that marriage is to be understood as something that bestows grace (charismen) (7,7). Thus marriage is drawn into the sphere of divine grace, and one can understand why the apostle in 7,17-24 can speak of marriage as a vocation in regard to both states of life, marriage and celibacy. The Pauline explanation of the connection between the sacraments and the manifold work of the one God (see 1 Cor 12,4-11) can deepen the understanding of marriage as a God-given calling. From this follows certain conclusions. Marriage is a state of life in which people seek to answer the call of God. In doing this they orient themselves to Jesus in the choice of lifestyle (as their answer to the call of God). The words "vocation" and "gift of grace" also serve to indicate the connection to married life. In regard to the witness of faith in a loving God, the basic similarity can be formulated in the understanding of both life projects.