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"Let each one remain in the same calling..."

Text: 1 Corinthians 7:20

THE PROFOUND IDEA OF BEING “CALLED”

Paul’s concept of being “called by God” was deep and profound. He sought to explain how this worked out.

“Let each one remain in the same calling in which he was called.
Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it;
but if you can be made free, rather use it.”
1 Corinthians 7:20-21

1. The calling of God

The following may be used as a working definition of what it means to be called by God.

a) To salvation

b) To sonship

c) To sanctification

d) To service

2. The stations of life (in the days of the Apostle Paul)

a) A slave

i) There were many slaves.

ii) These were often captives of war.

b) A freedman

i) A person may be born free (not a slave).

ii) A person may earn his freedom (emancipation).

iii) He is then termed “freedman”.

3. Does it matter to God when He calls what station of life we may be at?

a) Does it matter if anyone was a slave?

b) Does it matter if a person is a freedman?

4. The answer

a) “Do not be concerned about it.”

b) If there is a chance to be freed, this opportunity should be seized.

c) But if not, even if a person is a slave, it does not matter with the Lord.

d) A person’s relationship with God is not determined by the station of his life.

e) This was an important point to emphasise.

f) There was no need to be terribly anxious about one’s social status in life!