1 corinthians 7:21 - Were you called being a bondservant? Don’t let that bother you, but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it.
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What does "1 corinthians 7:21" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 7:21, from Paul's letter to the Corinthians, is addressing the specific issue of slavery within the early church. It's part of a larger discussion about how Christians should live in light of the impending return of Christ, emphasizing staying in the state they were in when they became believers, unless there was a compelling reason to change.
Here's a breakdown of the verse:
"Were you called being a bondservant?" This refers to someone who was a slave (a "bondservant" or "slave" in many translations) when they became a Christian. "Called" here means "called to salvation" or "became a believer."
"Don't let that bother you..." Paul is advising slaves not to be excessively concerned or distressed about their social status. He's suggesting that their identity in Christ is more important than their earthly condition. Being a Christian slave is still being a child of God and having the same spiritual benefits as a free person.
"...but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it." This is the key part. While Paul encourages contentment, he also states that if a slave has a legitimate chance to gain freedom, they should take it. This demonstrates that Paul, while not advocating for a slave rebellion or explicitly condemning slavery outright, recognized the inherent desirability of freedom.
In summary, the verse means:
If you were a slave when you became a Christian, don't be overly preoccupied with your slave status. Your relationship with Christ is paramount. However, if you have the opportunity to gain your freedom, seize it.
Key Interpretations and Nuances:
Contentment vs. Passivity: The verse balances the need for contentment in one's present circumstances with the active pursuit of freedom when available. It's not encouraging complacency or acceptance of injustice.
Social Context: It's crucial to remember the context of the first century. Slavery was deeply ingrained in Roman society. A full-scale rebellion would have been disastrous for the Christian community, which was already a vulnerable minority. Paul's advice was likely pragmatic, aimed at the survival and growth of the church.
Spiritual Freedom: Some commentators suggest that Paul is emphasizing spiritual freedom over physical freedom. While this is a valid point, it's important to note that the verse explicitly addresses the possibility of physical freedom and encourages its pursuit. Spiritual freedom doesn't negate the desire for physical autonomy.
No Explicit Condemnation of Slavery: While Paul doesn't explicitly condemn slavery in this passage, the implication is that freedom is a preferable state. He does, however, encourage masters to treat their slaves with kindness and fairness in other passages. The New Testament's indirect approach to slavery reflects the complexities of the social and political realities of the time.
Modern Application: The verse is often used to encourage believers to focus on their identity in Christ, regardless of their social or economic circumstances. It also highlights the importance of seizing opportunities for positive change when they arise. It can also be used to support the idea that even in difficult situations, there is always the hope for a better future.
Ultimately, 1 Corinthians 7:21 offers a nuanced perspective on slavery, urging believers to find contentment in their faith while remaining open to opportunities for freedom and improvement. It highlights the tension between spiritual realities and the social structures of the ancient world.
1 corinthians 7:21 - Were you called being a bondservant? Don’t let that bother you, but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it.
What does "1 corinthians 7:21" mean?
This verse, 1 Corinthians 7:21, from Paul's letter to the Corinthians, is addressing the specific issue of slavery within the early church. It's part of a larger discussion about how Christians should live in light of the impending return of Christ, emphasizing staying in the state they were in when they became believers, unless there was a compelling reason to change.
Here's a breakdown of the verse:
"Were you called being a bondservant?" This refers to someone who was a slave (a "bondservant" or "slave" in many translations) when they became a Christian. "Called" here means "called to salvation" or "became a believer."
"Don't let that bother you..." Paul is advising slaves not to be excessively concerned or distressed about their social status. He's suggesting that their identity in Christ is more important than their earthly condition. Being a Christian slave is still being a child of God and having the same spiritual benefits as a free person.
"...but if you get an opportunity to become free, use it." This is the key part. While Paul encourages contentment, he also states that if a slave has a legitimate chance to gain freedom, they should take it. This demonstrates that Paul, while not advocating for a slave rebellion or explicitly condemning slavery outright, recognized the inherent desirability of freedom.
In summary, the verse means:
If you were a slave when you became a Christian, don't be overly preoccupied with your slave status. Your relationship with Christ is paramount. However, if you have the opportunity to gain your freedom, seize it.
Key Interpretations and Nuances:
Contentment vs. Passivity: The verse balances the need for contentment in one's present circumstances with the active pursuit of freedom when available. It's not encouraging complacency or acceptance of injustice.
Social Context: It's crucial to remember the context of the first century. Slavery was deeply ingrained in Roman society. A full-scale rebellion would have been disastrous for the Christian community, which was already a vulnerable minority. Paul's advice was likely pragmatic, aimed at the survival and growth of the church.
Spiritual Freedom: Some commentators suggest that Paul is emphasizing spiritual freedom over physical freedom. While this is a valid point, it's important to note that the verse explicitly addresses the possibility of physical freedom and encourages its pursuit. Spiritual freedom doesn't negate the desire for physical autonomy.
No Explicit Condemnation of Slavery: While Paul doesn't explicitly condemn slavery in this passage, the implication is that freedom is a preferable state. He does, however, encourage masters to treat their slaves with kindness and fairness in other passages. The New Testament's indirect approach to slavery reflects the complexities of the social and political realities of the time.
Modern Application: The verse is often used to encourage believers to focus on their identity in Christ, regardless of their social or economic circumstances. It also highlights the importance of seizing opportunities for positive change when they arise. It can also be used to support the idea that even in difficult situations, there is always the hope for a better future.
Ultimately, 1 Corinthians 7:21 offers a nuanced perspective on slavery, urging believers to find contentment in their faith while remaining open to opportunities for freedom and improvement. It highlights the tension between spiritual realities and the social structures of the ancient world.