For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord's freedman. Conversely, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ's slave. For he who was a slave when he was called by the LordIn the Roman Empire, slavery was a common institution, with slaves making up a significant portion of the population. Slaves had limited rights and were considered the property of their masters. When Paul writes to the Corinthians, he acknowledges the social reality of slavery but emphasizes a spiritual transformation. Being "called by the Lord" refers to the moment of conversion and acceptance of the Christian faith. This calling transcends earthly status, indicating that one's spiritual identity in Christ is paramount. The concept of being called by God is echoed in passages like Romans 8:30, where those whom God predestines, He also calls. Phm 1:15-16 For perhaps this is why he was separated from you… is the Lord’s freedman. This phrase highlights the paradox of Christian freedom. While a person may be a slave in societal terms, in Christ, they are free. This freedom is not about social liberation but spiritual emancipation from sin and death, as seen in John 8:36, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." The term "freedman" would resonate with the audience, as freedmen in Roman society were former slaves who had been granted freedom and certain rights. Spiritually, this signifies liberation from the bondage of sin and the law, as discussed in Galatians 5:1. Jhn 8:36 So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed. Conversely, he who was a free man when he was called Paul addresses those who were not slaves at the time of their calling. In the Roman context, free men had more privileges and autonomy. However, Paul reminds them that their earthly freedom does not exempt them from spiritual servitude. This serves as a leveling message, indicating that all believers, regardless of social status, are equal before God. The idea of being called is consistent with the notion of divine election and purpose, as seen in Ephesians 1:18, where believers are called to hope and inheritance. 1Pe 2:16 Live in freedom, but do not use your freedom as a cover-up… is Christ’s slave. This phrase underscores the concept of willing servitude to Christ, a theme prevalent in Paul's writings. The term "slave" (doulos in Greek) implies total devotion and submission to the will of Christ. This is a voluntary and joyful servitude, contrasting with the involuntary nature of earthly slavery. In Romans 6:22, Paul explains that being a slave to God leads to holiness and eternal life. The imagery of being Christ's slave reflects the believer's commitment to live according to His teachings and commands, as seen in Philippians 1:1, where Paul refers to himself as a servant of Christ Jesus. This servitude is a type of Christ's own servanthood, as He came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45). Gal 1:10 Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God?… Persons / Places / Events 1. Paul the ApostleThe author of 1 Corinthians, Paul was writing to the church in Corinth to address various issues and questions they had about Christian living. 2. The Church in Corinth A diverse and cosmopolitan congregation in the city of Corinth, which was known for its wealth and moral challenges. The church faced issues related to social status, morality, and spiritual gifts. 3. Slaves and Freedmen In the Roman Empire, slavery was a common institution. Paul addresses both slaves and free men in the church, emphasizing their spiritual status in Christ. 4. Christ Central to Paul's message, Christ is the one who calls individuals to Himself, transforming their spiritual status regardless of their earthly condition. 5. The Lord’s Call The divine invitation to salvation and transformation, which transcends earthly social structures and statuses. Teaching Points Spiritual Freedom in ChristRegardless of earthly status, every believer is spiritually free in Christ. This freedom is not dependent on social or economic conditions but is a result of being called by the Lord. Identity in Christ Our primary identity is found in Christ, not in our social status. Whether slave or free, our worth and purpose are defined by our relationship with Jesus. Service to Christ As believers, we are called to serve Christ wholeheartedly. This service transcends our earthly roles and is a reflection of our devotion to Him. Equality in the Body of Christ The church is a community where all members are equal in Christ. This equality should be reflected in how we treat one another, breaking down barriers of social status. Transformation through the Gospel The gospel transforms our understanding of freedom and servitude. In Christ, we find true freedom, and in serving Him, we find our highest calling. Bible Study Questions 1. How does understanding our spiritual freedom in Christ impact the way we view our earthly circumstances?2. In what ways can we ensure that our identity in Christ takes precedence over our social or economic status? 3. How can the concept of being "Christ’s slave" influence our daily decisions and interactions with others? 4. What practical steps can we take to promote equality and unity within our church community, reflecting the truth of Galatians 3:28? 5. How does the transformation brought by the gospel challenge societal norms and expectations regarding status and service? Connections to Other Scriptures Galatians 3:28This verse emphasizes the equality of all believers in Christ, regardless of social status, gender, or ethnicity, reinforcing the idea that in Christ, earthly distinctions are secondary. Ephesians 6:5-9 Paul instructs slaves and masters on how to conduct themselves, highlighting that their ultimate service is to the Lord, not to human masters. Philemon 1:16 Paul appeals for Onesimus, a slave, to be received as a brother in Christ, illustrating the transformative power of the gospel on social relationships. People Corinthians, PaulPlaces CorinthTopics Becomes, Bondman, Bondservant, Christ, Christian, Christ's, Free, Freed, Freedman, Freeman, Free-man, Likewise, Lord's, Manner, Servant, Similarly, SlaveDictionary of Bible Themes 1 Corinthians 7:22Library Forms Versus Character'Circumcision is nothing, and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.'--1 COR. vii. 19. 'For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith which worketh by love.'--GAL. v. 6. 'For neither is circumcision anything, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature.'--GAL. vi. 16 (R.V.). The great controversy which embittered so much of Paul's life, and marred so much of his activity, turned upon the question whether a heathen man could come … Alexander Maclaren—Romans, Corinthians (To II Corinthians, Chap. V) Slaves and Free The Christian Life Marriage and Celibacy. A Drama in Five Acts How to Use the Present Life, and the Comforts of It. Family Religion. The Apostolic Scriptures. It Is, Therefore, the Present Necessity that we are to Avoid... But Lest any Should Think that of Two Works... After that the Same Apostle Adds, and Says... Yet He Added, "But Such Shall have Tribulation of the Flesh... Far be It, Therefore, that the Apostle So Said... For not Even Herein Ought Such as are Married to Compare Themselves with The... Here Some one Will Say, what Has this to do with Holy virginity... Let Marriages Possess their Own Good, not that they Beget Sons... And Now by Plainest Witnesses of Divine Scriptures... And not Without Just Cause a Doubt is Raised... And yet not to These Themselves is Marriage a Sin... There is this Further, that in that Very Debt which Married Persons Pay One... Further, in the Very Case of the More Immoderate Requirement of the Due Of... Therefore the Good of Marriage Throughout all Nations and all Men Stands in The... Therefore as Many Women as There are Now... But I Marvel, If, as it is Allowed to Put Away a Wife Who... Links 1 Corinthians 7:22 NIV1 Corinthians 7:22 NLT 1 Corinthians 7:22 ESV 1 Corinthians 7:22 NASB 1 Corinthians 7:22 KJV 1 Corinthians 7:22 Commentaries Bible Hub |
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