1 Corinthians 7:21-24
What is written? (ESV)
Were you a slave when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.) For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ. You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men. So, brothers, in whatever condition each was called, there let him remain with God.
What does it say?
Were you converted as a slave? Don’t be concerned about it (but if you are able to gain your freedom then do it). If you were a slave when called, you are free in Christ. Likewise, if you were free in life, you are a slave in Christ (when converted). You were bought with a price! Don’t fall back into being a slave of men . Therefore, brethren, in whatever physical state you were called, there let him remain with God.
What is its immediate context?
Paul is emphasizing the ‘higher calling’ of Christians, over and above whatever their calling in life might be. He just gave an example of a physical condition (circumcision), and here he gives an example of a role or station in life.
How 1 Corinthians 7:21-24 is applied across Bible answers
Does the Bible condone slavery?
Paul emphasizes one's spiritual calling over and above one's physical calling or station in life. He makes note that the opportunity to become free should be taken advantage of, but ultimately the Christian, including a slave that is a Christian, is serving God.
