1 Corinthians 7:17-40

 1 Corinthians 7:17-40

The Church of Corinth had written Paul and asked several specific questions which he answered beginning in this chapter. Rather than address each issue the Corinthians bring up, there are some key principles that we can apply to our circumstances.

First, when a person becomes a disciple, that will not suddenly change their status. A laborer suddenly doesn't become a manager, a poor man doesn't suddenly become rich, and a person in a bad marriage doesn't suddenly become single. Sometimes Christianity is presented as a quick fix or cure for all of our personal hardships, and Jesus is seen as a genie to do tricks for us. What we are when we become Christians is what we are going to be as we begin our lives in Christ. But as a Christian, there is now Grace for our circumstances.

The second principle is about engagement in life and ministry. Paul is not discouraging improving lives or circumstances. However, we must do this in view of our engagement in life as disciples and our ministry. Gaining freedom for a slave is good, but a Christian slave serving the Lord faithfully is better off than a freeman who is still in sin. Wherever we are, we ought to serve, thrive, and minister. Building a better life ought to be secondary to our ministry.

The third principle that we can apply is that of freedom. If a disciple wants to marry, they are free to do so, but there will be consequences, specifically a certain loss of freedom in ministering. If they wish to remain celibate, there are specific advantages for ministry, but they must make sure that they are able to live holy in that life. There is no one pattern that must be applied to all believers apart from holy living. In holy living there is great freedom for the disciple.

The fourth principle is to be astute and aware of our circumstances. Corinth was beginning to experience persecution, and that persecution would get worse and spread. This is what Paul is talking about in verses 26 and 29. They were about to face growing pressure, and they would need to get on a persecuted footing in advance. As Christians, we need to be especially aware of what is going on around us. That doesn't mean being panicked by every dire warning but wise and astute enough and preparing accordingly. Jesus said, “Be wise as serpents and harmless as doves.” He never said to be as dumb as donkeys.

The disciple in the world that is not engaged in the Lord’s service where they are and in their current condition will be of little value to the kingdom.

“Lord, help me live the life I have to the fullest for You and Your Kingdom. AMEN”