What is the meaning of 1 Corinthians 7:20? Each one Paul addresses every believer without exception, underscoring personal responsibility. No one is too insignificant to receive and obey this counsel. • 1 Corinthians 7:17 reminds us that “each one should lead the life the Lord has assigned to him,” echoing the same inclusive language. • Romans 14:12 affirms individual accountability: “So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God.” The emphasis: God sees and values every individual believer and expects each to listen and respond to His direction. Should remain The word “remain” stresses stability, not stagnation. Paul encourages contented perseverance rather than restless pursuit of change merely for change’s sake. • Philippians 4:11–12 shows Paul modeling contentment “in whatever state I am.” • Hebrews 13:5 urges, “Be content with what you have, for He Himself has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” Remaining therefore reflects trust in God’s providence, knowing He guides our circumstances. In the situation “Situation” (or “condition”) refers to external life settings—marital status, social standing, vocation. Paul is not commanding believers to freeze their lives permanently but to resist the notion that outward change automatically produces greater spirituality. • 1 Samuel 17:34–37 illustrates David’s faith forged while tending sheep, showing God uses humble stations for significant purposes. • Colossians 3:23–24 instructs servants to “work heartily, as for the Lord,” proving every role can glorify Christ. He was in This phrase looks back to the believer’s circumstances at conversion. Paul’s concern: believers were thinking they must overhaul their earthly status to be fully accepted by God. • Acts 16:14–15 records Lydia continuing her business after believing. • Luke 3:12–14 shows tax collectors and soldiers remaining in their professions while adopting godly ethics. The gospel transforms hearts first; external alterations follow only as Scripture clearly requires. When he was called “Called” refers to God’s effectual call into saving faith (Romans 8:30). Salvation itself—not social mobility—is the watershed event. • Galatians 1:15 speaks of being “called by His grace.” • 2 Timothy 1:9 notes we are “called with a holy calling…according to His own purpose.” Recognizing God’s sovereign call cultivates peace; He knew our setting and plans to glorify Himself through it. Living it out Practical implications flow naturally: • Stay put unless obedience to explicit Scripture demands change (e.g., leaving sin, Acts 19:19). • View work, family, and community as God-assigned mission fields (Matthew 5:16). • Pursue growth in grace where you are (2 Peter 3:18), trusting God to open new doors in His time (Proverbs 3:5–6). • Accept that contentment is learned, not automatic; pray for a heart that treasures Christ above circumstances (1 Timothy 6:6). summary 1 Corinthians 7:20 teaches that every believer—without exception—should rest in the life setting where God first called him, confident that salvation sanctifies that arena for ministry. Remaining is not passivity but faithful stewardship, trusting God’s sovereign placement while staying ready to obey if He clearly redirects. |
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