Previously in his letter to the Corinthians Paul addressed various topics to which he had received instruction from the Lord. Now the apostle speaks of his own account focusing on one’s calling.
“17 But as God has distributed to each one, as the Lord has called each one, so let him walk. And so I ordain in all the churches.” (1 Corinthians 7:17)
Paul calls on believers in Corinth to continue their walk according to each one’s appointed role, according to God’s perfect plan. The apostle writes that christians should focus on advancing the gospel thereby increasing their rewards in heaven rather than improving their situation in the world.
“18 Was anyone called while circumcised? Let him not become uncircumcised. Was anyone called while uncircumcised? Let him not be circumcised. 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but keeping the commandments of God is what matters.” (1 Corinthians 7:18-19)
Paul now addresses circumcision declaring it irrelevant compared to obedience. Believers, either circumcised or not are called to advance the gospel of Jesus Christ as we work out our salvation. While the Law of Moses called for believers to be circumcised, the Law of Christ focuses on Jesus’ sacrifice instead of our own. Those circumzised should serve in spite of their sacrifice while the uncircumcised should remain so and concentrate on serving God.
“20 Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called. 21 Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it.” (1 Corinthians 7:20-21)
The same rule applies to those chosen to serve in situations less than ideal. At the time this letter was written over half the population of Rome were enslaved. Paul calls on all believers, despite their social status to serve the Lord and proclaim His divine love to the four corners of the earth per the gospel.
“22 For he who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise he who is called while free is Christ’s slave.” (1 Corinthians 7:22)
Brought together as one body, both masters and slaves are God’s servants destined to worship and glorify the only one true creator. Both masters and slaves were freed through the blood of Christ shed on the cross on the mount.
“23 You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.” (1 Corinthians 7:23)
Christ paid the ultimate price so all believers would be delivered from bondage to man, from bondage to sin. Through faith in Jesus and almighty God we are freed, delivered from the world, saved from the lake of fire where all sinners belong.
“24 Brethren, let each one remain with God in that state in which he was called.” (1 Corinthians 7:24)
Paul reiterates the importance for believers to serve within their existing realm where we are chosen to fulfill God’s mission for our lives.
No matter the situation we find ourselves in, when in Christ believers should focus on advancing the gospel and sharing the good news about Jesus’ return. More than a calling, it is our duty as children of God. Let us pray!
Father God;
We thank you for your blessings in our lives and for your servant Paul,
We praise you Lord for his wisdom and for his works through this scripture,
We ask you Lord to inspire us to use these verses in our lives
As we grow in you through the teachings of your faithful apostle.
Lord we ask you to strengthen us each day as we endure through battles,
Allow us to praise and love each other through faith in you Jesus,
Shield us from evil through truth, the gospel, salvation and prayer,
Guide us to abide by your word as we spread your gospel to one and all
Becoming examples of faith through our character as we walk the narrow path.
God we pray that you will continue to bless us, to bless our lives and fill us with hope
We ask you Lord to guide our footsteps and lead us to the way everlasting,
Through faith in you Lord we seek salvation and a place with you in heaven
According to your word, your everlasting wisdom and strength.
May your will be done
In our lives, for your life.
We thank you for your love and all you bless us with each day.
Praise God,
Amen!
This message was written by Daniel St.Pierre
Email: DanielStPierre@ThriveThroughChrist.com
