1 Corinthians 7:24

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

Brethren {G80}, let {G3306} every man {G1538}, wherein {G1722}{G3739} he is called {G2564}, therein {G1722}{G5129} abide {G3306} with {G3844} God {G2316}.

Brothers, let each one remain with God in the condition in which he was called.

Brothers, each one should remain in the situation he was in when God called him.

Brethren, let each man, wherein he was called, therein abide with God.

Commentary

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:24 (KJV)

The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 7:24, delivers a concluding principle to his extensive discussion on marriage, celibacy, and various social conditions for believers. This verse serves as a powerful summary, urging believers to remain faithful to God within their existing circumstances at the time of their conversion.

Context

Chapter 7 of 1 Corinthians addresses numerous questions from the Corinthian church regarding Christian conduct in different life situations. Paul has just discussed whether slaves should seek freedom (verses 21-23), advising them that their spiritual freedom in Christ is paramount, even if their social status remains unchanged. He emphasizes that external circumstances are secondary to one's relationship with God. Verse 24 generalizes this principle to all believers, regardless of their marital status, social standing, or any other worldly condition.

Key Themes

  • Contentment in God: The verse encourages believers to find satisfaction and purpose in their current life situation, understanding that God has called them into fellowship with Him precisely where they are. It discourages restless striving for external changes as a prerequisite for spiritual growth or acceptance.
  • Spiritual Identity Over Social Status: Paul reiterates that a believer's true identity and worth are not defined by their worldly position (e.g., married, single, slave, free) but by their relationship with God. This aligns with Paul's broader teaching that in Christ, such distinctions are transcended, as seen in Galatians 3:28.
  • Abiding with God: The core instruction is to "abide with God." This means living out one's life, whatever its external form, in constant awareness of God's presence, seeking to please Him and honor Him in every action and attitude. It's an active, spiritual posture within one's given reality.

Linguistic Insights

The key phrase "wherein he is called" refers to the specific state or condition a person was in when they received God's call to salvation. The Greek word for "called" here (κλῆσις, klēsis) broadly signifies one's lot or station in life at the time of conversion, rather than a specific vocational calling. The term "abide" (μένω, menō) implies to remain, stay, or continue. It’s not a passive resignation but an active, faithful dwelling in one’s state, maintaining a close connection with God.

Practical Application

1 Corinthians 7:24 offers profound practical guidance for believers today:

  • Embrace Your Current Circumstances: It encourages believers to glorify God in their present circumstances, whether in a challenging job, a difficult family situation, or a comfortable life. The focus shifts from what one does to how one does it—namely, with God.
  • Prioritize Relationship with God: More important than changing one's external status is deepening one's relationship with God within that status. True transformation begins internally.
  • Find Contentment: This verse teaches a powerful lesson about finding true contentment in whatever state they are in, knowing that God is with them and working through their circumstances for His glory.
  • Live Out Your Faith Authentically: Whatever your role in society or your personal situation, live as a faithful follower of Christ, demonstrating His character and values right where you are.

In essence, Paul's message is that salvation transforms our perspective and purpose, not necessarily our external conditions. We are to live out our Christian faith faithfully and fully in the context God has placed us, always "with God."

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • 1 Corinthians 7:20 (6 votes)

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

  • Colossians 3:23 (5 votes)

    And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

  • Colossians 3:24 (5 votes)

    Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

  • 1 Corinthians 7:17 (3 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.

  • Genesis 17:1 (2 votes)

    ¶ And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the LORD appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I [am] the Almighty God; walk before me, and be thou perfect.

  • 1 Corinthians 10:31 (2 votes)

    Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.

  • Genesis 5:22 (2 votes)

    And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters: