1 Corinthians 7:17-24

17: Only, as the Lord has assigned to each one, as God has called each, in this manner let him walk. And so I direct in all the churches.
18: Was any man called when he was already circumcised? He is not to become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called in uncircumcision? He is not to be circumcised.
19: Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but what matters is the keeping of the commandments of God.
20: Each man must remain in that condition in which he was called.

21: Were you called while a slave? Do not worry about it; but if you are able also to become free, rather do that.
22: For he who was called in the Lord while a slave, is the Lord’s freedman; likewise he who was called while free, is Christ’s slave.
23: You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men.
24: Brethren, each one is to remain with God in that condition in which he was called.

*** 

Paul took a moment to emphasize that each believer should consider their position when they came to believe in Jesus, and remain in that position as the Lord had assigned him. If one was a circumcised Jew, so be it. If not, then don’t get circumcised. Neither one mattered, just the keeping of God’s commandments. God had commanded the Jews to be circumcised before the work of the cross was complete, but once it was, the Law was fulfilled, and circumcision was no longer a requirement for salvation.

Paul went on and compared slaves to free men. He said not to make it their pursuit to become free at all costs just because they'd become a Christian. If they could rightfully do so, then do, but all believers are the Lord’s slave, and we are all free in Him. We are all bought with a price, meaning the Lord Jesus paid a great price for our redemption with His own blood on the cross. We serve Him over man, no matter what our earthly position.

Whether circumcised, slave, free, married, unmarried, or whatever title or position a person has, the important thing is to do all as unto the Lord and function where you are willingly and joyfully. Bloom where you are planted. Consider your earthly titles and recognize that these are not to be disregarded just because you’ve become a Christian. On the contrary, you should seek to fulfill these callings with all the grace and power of God available to you.

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