1 Corinthians 7:20

Let every man abide in the same calling wherein he was called.

Let {G3306} every man {G1538} abide {G3306} in {G1722} the same {G5026} calling {G2821} wherein {G1722}{G3739} he was called {G2564}.

Each person should remain in the condition he was in when he was called.

Each one should remain in the situation he was in when he was called.

Let each man abide in that calling wherein he was called.

Commentary

Context of 1 Corinthians 7:20

In 1 Corinthians chapter 7, the Apostle Paul addresses a series of questions from the Corinthian church concerning various aspects of Christian living, particularly regarding marriage, singleness, and social status. His overarching counsel is often to remain in the state one was in when called to Christ, unless there is a clear, God-honoring reason to change. This principle is articulated throughout verses 1 Corinthians 7:17-24, which cover issues like circumcision and slavery. Verse 20 specifically summarizes this general directive, encouraging believers to find contentment and purpose in their existing circumstances.

Meaning of "Calling"

The term "calling" in this verse (Greek: klēsis) does not primarily refer to a specific spiritual vocation or ministry in the modern sense (like being "called to be a pastor"). Instead, it refers to the social or personal condition in which a person was living at the moment they were converted to Christianity. This could encompass their marital status, whether they were circumcised or uncircumcised, or their social standing as a slave or free person. Paul’s point is that one’s spiritual standing in Christ far outweighs any external social or cultural designation. The emphasis is on the divine call to salvation, which transcends all earthly distinctions.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Contentment in Christ: The verse encourages believers to find satisfaction and purpose in their relationship with God, rather than constantly seeking to change their external circumstances. One's identity in Christ is paramount.
  • Spiritual Equality: Paul reiterates that social distinctions—whether Jew or Gentile, slave or free—are secondary in the kingdom of God. What matters is one's new identity in Christ (Galatians 3:28).
  • Focus on the Gospel: The core message is that the transformative power of the Gospel is not dependent on one's worldly status or position. Believers should prioritize their walk with God over worldly pursuits or societal expectations.
  • Stability and Witness: By remaining in their calling, believers could demonstrate the sufficiency of Christ in any situation, avoiding unnecessary social upheaval that might distract from or discredit the Gospel message.

Practical Application

For believers today, 1 Corinthians 7:20 offers profound guidance:

  1. Embrace Your Current Station: While not discouraging positive growth or change, the verse challenges us to consider how we can honor God and serve Him effectively in our present jobs, relationships, and life stages.
  2. Prioritize Spiritual Identity: Our worth and purpose are found in being "called of God" (1 Corinthians 1:9) rather than in our professional titles, wealth, or social standing.
  3. Redeem Your Circumstances: Instead of waiting for ideal conditions, Christians are called to live out their faith and be a light wherever they are. Paul even extends this principle to slaves, advising them to serve faithfully but also to seek freedom if the opportunity arises (1 Corinthians 7:21), showing that the principle is not absolute stagnation but a focus on internal spiritual freedom.

Ultimately, this verse encourages a deep sense of contentment and purpose, grounded in the reality that our true calling is to live for Christ, regardless of our external circumstances.

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Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 7:17 (7 votes)

    ¶ But as God hath distributed to every man, as the Lord hath called every one, so let him walk. And so ordain I in all churches.

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:11 (6 votes)

    And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you;

  • Proverbs 27:8 (4 votes)

    ¶ As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so [is] a man that wandereth from his place.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:21 (4 votes)

    Art thou called [being] a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use [it] rather.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:24 (4 votes)

    Brethren, let every man, wherein he is called, therein abide with God.

  • 2 Thessalonians 3:12 (4 votes)

    Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.

  • Luke 3:10 (3 votes)

    And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do then?