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17 Only, let each one live the life which the Lord has assigned him, and to which God has called him [for each person is unique and is accountable for his choices and conduct, let him walk in this way]. This is the rule I make in all the churches. 18 Was anyone at the time of his calling [from God already] circumcised? He is not to [a]become uncircumcised. Has anyone been called while uncircumcised? [b]He is not to be circumcised.(A) 19 Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but what matters is keeping the commandments of God.

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Footnotes

  1. 1 Corinthians 7:18 Paul may be speaking figuratively of abandoning all of one’s Jewish heritage and culture; however, there was a procedure in ancient medicine for reversing circumcision.
  2. 1 Corinthians 7:18 A faction of Jewish Christians (often called “Judaizers”) hounded Paul and insisted that Gentile believers must be circumcised.

Concerning Change of Status

17 Nevertheless, each person should live as a believer in whatever situation the Lord has assigned to them, just as God has called them.(A) This is the rule I lay down in all the churches.(B) 18 Was 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.(C) 19 Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing.(D) Keeping God’s commands is what counts.

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