1 Corinthians 7:21

KJV

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

KJV (with Strong's)

Art thou called {G2564} being a servant {G1401}? care {G3199}{G4671} not {G3361} for it {G3199}: but {G235} if {G1499} thou mayest {G1410} be made {G1096} free {G1658}, use {G5530} it rather {G3123}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Were you a slave when you were called? Well, don’t let it bother you; although if you can gain your freedom, take advantage of the opportunity.

Berean Standard Bible

Were you a slave when you were called? Do not let it concern you—but if you can gain your freedom, take the opportunity.

American Standard Version

Wast thou called being a bondservant? care not for it: nay, even if thou canst become free, use it rather.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
1 Corinthians 7:21 offers profound counsel to believers regarding their social status, particularly concerning servitude or freedom, within the broader context of Paul's advice on living a Christian life in various circumstances. The verse encourages those called by God while enslaved not to be overly concerned with their earthly condition, yet simultaneously advises them to embrace opportunities for freedom if they arise, underscoring that spiritual identity in Christ transcends external social standing.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is situated within 1 Corinthians chapter 7, where the Apostle Paul addresses a series of practical questions posed by the Corinthian church concerning marriage, celibacy, and social status. Paul's overarching message throughout the chapter is a call to contentment and stability in one's current state, emphasizing that believers' primary identity and calling are in Christ, rendering external circumstances secondary. He transitions from discussing marital status (remaining single or married) to social status, applying the same principle of "remaining in the state in which one was called" to bondservants and free individuals. This particular verse directly precedes Paul's explicit declaration that "he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord's freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ's servant" [1 Corinthians 7:22](/1_corinthians/7-22 "1 Corinthians 7:22 - Spiritual Freedom in Christ"), reinforcing the spiritual over the social.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** First-century Corinth was a bustling Roman provincial capital, characterized by a diverse population and significant social stratification, including a large number of enslaved people. Slavery was a pervasive institution throughout the Roman Empire, differing from later forms of chattel slavery in some respects (e.g., some enslaved people could earn money, buy their freedom, or be manumitted). Paul's audience included both free persons and bondservants. For a bondservant to become a Christian meant entering a community where, in principle, social distinctions were dissolved in Christ [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Equality in Christ"). This presented a unique challenge: how should a Christian slave view their earthly bondage in light of their newfound spiritual liberty? Paul's counsel is revolutionary, not advocating for social revolution, but for a radical reorientation of values based on one's relationship with God.
* **Key Themes:** The verse contributes significantly to several key themes within 1 Corinthians and Paul's broader theology. A central theme is **Spiritual Freedom and Identity in Christ**, asserting that one's true status is defined by their relationship with God, not by societal labels. Paul consistently emphasizes that believers are "bought with a price" [1 Corinthians 6:20](/1_corinthians/6-20 "1 Corinthians 6:20 - Bought with a Price"), belonging to Christ, which grants them a profound spiritual liberty that transcends any earthly bondage. Another theme is **Contentment and Focus on God's Calling**, encouraging believers not to be overly distressed by their external circumstances but to focus on serving God within their current situation. This aligns with Paul's teaching on learning to be content in all circumstances [Philippians 4:11](/philippians/4-11 "Philippians 4:11 - Learning Contentment"). Finally, there's a theme of **Pragmatism and Wise Stewardship of Opportunity**, as Paul, while advocating contentment, also advises utilizing opportunities for legitimate social improvement, demonstrating a balanced approach to Christian living that is both spiritually grounded and practically discerning.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **called (Greek, _kaléō'_):** From G2564, meaning "to call (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)." In this context, it refers to God's effectual calling to salvation, the divine invitation that brings one into a relationship with Christ. It signifies the initiation of one's Christian life, irrespective of their social standing at that moment.
* **servant (Greek, _doûlos'_):** From G1401, meaning "a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency); bond(-man), servant." This term accurately reflects the legal and social reality of slavery in the Roman world. Paul's use here explicitly addresses those who were in literal legal bondage, highlighting the radical inclusivity of the early church where even slaves were considered full members and brothers/sisters in Christ.
* **free (Greek, _eleútheros'_):** From G1658, meaning "unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e. (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or liability); free (man, woman), at liberty." This word stands in direct contrast to _doûlos_, representing the state of not being enslaved, either by birth or through manumission. Paul's instruction here acknowledges the practical difference between these two states while relativizing their ultimate spiritual significance.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Art thou called [being] a servant?"**: This rhetorical question addresses the specific situation of a believer who was a _doûlos_ (slave or bondservant) at the time of their conversion. It acknowledges their social reality and sets the stage for Paul's counsel. The implication is that one's social status at the point of calling does not invalidate or diminish their divine calling.
* **"care not for it:"**: This phrase, translating the Greek _mélō_ (G3199) combined with _mḗ_ (G3361), means "do not be concerned about it" or "do not let it trouble you." It is not a command to be indifferent to one's condition, but rather to not be consumed by anxiety or despair over one's social bondage. The emphasis is on prioritizing one's spiritual identity and freedom in Christ over the discomfort or indignity of earthly servitude.
* **"but if thou mayest be made free, use [it] rather."**: This clause provides a crucial qualification and practical instruction. The Greek _ei kaí_ (G1499) "if also" or "though," combined with _dýnamai_ (G1410) "to be able" and _gínomai_ (G1096) "to become," indicates a real possibility. If an opportunity for manumission or legal freedom arises, the bondservant should "use it rather" (_chráomai_ G5530, _mâllon_ G3123). This is not a command to actively seek freedom at all costs, but an encouragement to embrace it if it legitimately becomes available, as freedom generally offers greater opportunities for service and less hindrance.

#### Literary Devices
Paul employs several literary devices in this concise verse to convey his profound theological and practical advice. The initial phrase, "Art thou called [being] a servant?", functions as a **Rhetorical Question**, immediately engaging the audience and setting up the specific scenario for which counsel is given. This is followed by a clear **Antithesis** or **Contrast** between "care not for it" and "use it rather." While the first part encourages spiritual contentment despite social hardship, the second part offers a pragmatic allowance for improving one's external circumstances if the opportunity arises. This creates a balanced perspective, avoiding both fatalistic resignation and restless striving. The underlying message also contains a powerful **Paradox**: true freedom is found in Christ, regardless of one's social state, yet earthly freedom is still preferable if attainable. This highlights the tension between the spiritual reality of Christian liberty and the practical realities of human existence.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Paul's counsel in 1 Corinthians 7:21 profoundly impacts our understanding of Christian identity and liberty. It asserts that one's standing before God is not contingent upon social status, wealth, or earthly power. In Christ, all believers, whether free or enslaved, possess an equal spiritual dignity and freedom. This radical equality undermines the hierarchical structures of the world and redefines true worth. The verse encourages a spiritual resilience that finds contentment in God's calling, while simultaneously acknowledging the practical benefits of earthly freedom. It teaches that while our primary focus should be on our relationship with Christ, we are not to be passive in the face of opportunities for legitimate improvement in our lives, especially if such improvement enables greater service or reduces hindrances.

* [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Equality in Christ")
* [Colossians 3:11](/colossians/3-11 "Colossians 3:11 - Christ is All")
* [Philippians 4:11-13](/philippians/4-11-13 "Philippians 4:11-13 - Contentment in All Circumstances")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
1 Corinthians 7:21 offers enduring wisdom for believers navigating the complexities of their social and professional lives today. It challenges us to critically examine where we derive our sense of worth and identity. Are we defined by our job titles, financial standing, social networks, or perceived successes? Or is our fundamental identity rooted in our calling as children of God, redeemed and made new in Christ? The verse encourages a profound spiritual contentment, urging us not to be consumed by anxiety or dissatisfaction over our external circumstances. This does not mean passive resignation to hardship, but rather a deep trust in God's providence and a focus on serving Him faithfully in our current sphere. Simultaneously, it provides a liberating permission to pursue opportunities for growth, advancement, or positive change if they align with God's will and do not compromise our spiritual integrity. This balance calls for discernment: to be content in the Lord, yet wise stewards of the opportunities He presents, always prioritizing our spiritual freedom and calling above all else.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **In what ways do I allow my social status, job, or financial situation to define my worth or identity?**
* **How can I cultivate a deeper sense of contentment in my current circumstances, even if they are challenging?**
* **What opportunities for positive change or "freedom" might God be presenting in my life, and how can I wisely discern and utilize them for His glory?**
* **How does my understanding of spiritual freedom in Christ impact my view of earthly limitations or aspirations?**

### FAQ

**Does 1 Corinthians 7:21 endorse slavery?**

Answer: No, 1 Corinthians 7:21 does not endorse slavery. Instead, it provides pastoral counsel to individuals living within a pervasive social system of the time. Paul's primary concern is the spiritual well-being and identity of believers, emphasizing that one's external social status (whether free or enslaved) does not diminish their spiritual standing or worth in Christ. He advises those who are enslaved not to be overly distressed by their condition, as their true freedom is found in the Lord [1 Corinthians 7:22](/1_corinthians/7-22 "1 Corinthians 7:22 - Spiritual Freedom in Christ"). However, he also pragmatically encourages them to accept freedom if it becomes available. The New Testament, while not explicitly calling for the abolition of slavery, lays theological groundwork that ultimately undermines its moral legitimacy by proclaiming the radical equality and dignity of all people in Christ [Galatians 3:28](/galatians/3-28 "Galatians 3:28 - Equality in Christ"); [Colossians 3:11](/colossians/3-11 "Colossians 3:11 - Christ is All")).

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
1 Corinthians 7:21 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ, who is the embodiment of true freedom and the source of our spiritual identity. While Paul addresses the practicalities of social status, his underlying theological premise is that in Christ, earthly distinctions are relativized. Jesus, though "in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant" [Philippians 2:6-7](/philippians/2-6-7 "Philippians 2:6-7 - Christ's Humility"), becoming a _doûlos_ to redeem humanity. Through His sacrificial death and resurrection, Christ secured genuine liberty for all who believe, liberating them from the bondage of sin and death [Romans 6:18](/romans/6-18 "Romans 6:18 - Freed from Sin"). Therefore, whether one is socially free or enslaved, their ultimate freedom is found in being "the Lord's freeman" [1 Corinthians 7:22](/1_corinthians/7-22 "1 Corinthians 7:22 - Spiritual Freedom in Christ")—a profound truth made possible by Christ's redemptive work. Our calling in Christ transcends any earthly label, inviting us to live as those truly set free by the Son [John 8:36](/john/8-36 "John 8:36 - True Freedom in Christ"), whose service is perfect freedom.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Colossians 3:11

Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond [nor] free: but Christ [is] all, and in all.

1 Peter 2:18

Servants, [be] subject to [your] masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.

1 Peter 2:24

Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

1 Corinthians 12:13

For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether [we be] Jews or Gentiles, whether [we be] bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

Luke 12:29

And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink, neither be ye of doubtful mind.

Luke 10:40

But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not care that my sister hath left me to serve alone? bid her therefore that she help me.

Luke 10:41

And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou art careful and troubled about many things: