1 Corinthians 7:17-24

Expanded Bible

Live as God Called You

¹⁷ But in any case each one of you should continue to live ·the way [or in the situation] God has given you to live—the way you were when God called you. This is a ·rule [instruction] I make in all the churches. ¹⁸ If a man was already circumcised when he was called, he should not undo his circumcision. If a man was without circumcision when he was called, he should not be circumcised. ¹⁹ ·It is not important if a man is circumcised or not [^LCircumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing]. The important thing is ·obeying [keeping] God’s commands. ²⁰ Each one of you should stay ·the way you were [in the situation you were in] when God called you. ²¹ If you were a slave when God called you, do not let that bother you. But if you can ·be free [gain your freedom], ·then make good use of your freedom [or then take that opportunity; or instead remain and make use of your opportunities as a slave]. ²² [^LFor] Those who were slaves when the Lord called them are free persons who belong to the Lord. In the same way, those who were free when they were called are now Christ’s slaves. ²³ You all were bought at a great price, so do not become slaves of people. ²⁴ Brothers and sisters, each of you should stay as you were when you were called, ·and stay there with God [or with God at your side; ^Lwith God].