You were bought at a price
1 Corinthians 7:21-24(AMP) Were you a slave when you were called? Do not worry about that [since your status as a believer is equal to that of a freeborn believer]; but if you are able to gain your freedom, do that. For he who was a slave when he was called in the Lord is a freedman of the Lord, likewise he who was free when he was called is a slave of Christ. You were bought with a price [a precious price paid by Christ]; do not become slaves to men [but to Christ]. Brothers, let each one remain with God in that condition in which he was [when he was] called.
Verse 21 acknowledges that some individuals were enslaved when they became followers of Christ. Paul encourages them not to be overly concerned about their social status as slaves, assuring them that their standing as Believers in Christ is equal to that of freeborn Believers. In other words, their spiritual position before God is not affected by their status as slaves.
You were bought with a price [a precious price paid by Christ]; do not become slaves to men [but to Christ].
This highlights that Christ has purchased and redeemed us through His sacrifice on the cross. This redemption sets us free from the bondage of sin and worldly systems. By stating, do not become slaves to men [but to Christ], Paul reminds us that our true allegiance should be to Christ. It encourages us to prioritise our relationship with Christ and live according to His teachings and guidance.
Galatians 5:1(NIV) It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery.
John 8:36(NIV) So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.
Romans 6:18(NIV) You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness.
let each one remain with God in that condition in which he was [when he was] called.
This verse emphasises contentment and the idea that one’s spiritual relationship with God is not contingent on external circumstances. It encourages Believers to find ways to honour and serve God in whatever situation they find themselves.
Philippians 4:11-12(NIV) I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
Colossians 3:23-24(NIV) Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
1 Timothy 6:6-8(NIV) But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
The key message can be summarised as follows:
- Freedom in Christ: In Christ, all Believers, regardless of their social status, are considered free.
- Contentment: Paul encourages Believers to find contentment and remain in the condition in which they were called. We are to seek and serve God faithfully within our current circumstances.
- Serving Christ: Paul encourages Believers not to become slaves to human masters but to recognise our ultimate allegiance to Christ. Our primary focus should be serving and honouring God, regardless of our social position.
This passage promotes contentment, freedom in Christ, and maintaining allegiance to Christ above external circumstances or societal expectations. It reminds us that our relationship with God is not determined by our social status but by our faith and devotion to Him.