1 Corinthians 7:17-24

CHAPTER 7

¹⁷Nevertheless, each one should retain the place in life that the Lord assigned to him and to which God has called him. This is the rule I lay down in all the churches. ¹⁸Was a man already circumcised when he was called? He should not become uncircumcised. Was a man uncircumcised when he was called? He should not be circumcised.¹⁹Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing. Keeping God’s commands is what counts. ²⁰Each one should remain in the situation which he was in when God called him. ²¹Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so. ²²For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman; similarly, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. ²³You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men. ²⁴Brothers, each man, as responsible to God, should remain in the situation God called him to.

MEDITATION

1. We’d like to think that our married status, vocational status, economic status make us who we are.  These are important but not essential raw materials which God uses to shape his life in us.  So, Paul told them don’t wish to be someplace else or with someone else.  God, not your marital status or any other thing, defines your life (v17).
2. What are some of the things that I’d like to have changed in my life?  Would verses 17 & 19 provide some direction and principle?  Tell God about it and, if needed, contact your pastor for further help.

Personal Note:

This passage is taken from the context concerning married life.  For people who are getting older who wishes to get marry, remaining single can be a great challenge.  I have to confess that I wished I could get married sooner like many of my peers when I was 23-28 years old.  I wrote in my diary and pray to God for finding a girlfriend.  

Regarding the changing of status, some early church Christians believed that when God called them, they will gain a more blessed status.  In reality, many of them would go through persecution.

I am reminded that I am to live as a follower of Christ in whatever context.  This passage is not to be used as an excuse not to grow and mature.  God placed in our hearts discontent and weaknesses so that we long to depend on Him and grow.  Personally, I would like to have more passion for sharing the Good news of Christ, more compassion to care for the people who are in need, and a deeper desire to build a stronger relationship with God.