1 Corinthians 7:23

2T476

Bought. The purchase price is the infinitely precious blood of Jesus (see John 3:16; Rom. 5:8, 18, 19; 1 Peter 1:18, 19; 1 Peter 3:18). Slaves who accept the gospel, although bound to human masters and deprived of civil liberty, are of incalculable value in the eyes of God. They are the bondslaves of Jesus Christ, and they can serve Him by continuing in submission to their earthly masters, because Christ will consider such service, if faithfully rendered, as done for Him (see Eph. 6:5-8; Col. 3:22-24).

Servants of men. Rather, “slaves of men.” The meaning of the injunction “be not ye the servants of men” is not entirely clear in the present context. Some understand it as counsel for those who are free, or those who have been freed, not to become slaves.

Others consider the injunction counsel to all Christians, whether bond or free, to be guided by the principles of truth while performing their duties according to their civil status in life. Under no circumstances will they transgress the law of God in order to comply with the requirements of men (see Acts 5:29). They will recognize that God, who has paid the price for their salvation, requires complete devotion and undivided allegiance (see Luke 10:27). They will permit no one to interfere with their rights and duty to worship God according to the dictates of their own conscience. The Holy Spirit is the Christian’s guide and teacher (see John 16:13; Rom. 8:14). The conscience is the Lord’s, to be guided by Him, and not to be brought under the control of any man or body of men. The life belongs to God, to be ruled and used by Him according to His will. In all respects the Christian is the property of God (cf. COL 312). This transaction is, on God’s side, a purchase, and on the believer’s side, a willing, happy consecration. In this way God’s ownership of believers through Christ is the guarantee of their deliverance from bondage to men in all that relates to the will and conscience, and the proof of the truth that the service of Christ is perfect freedom (see John 8:32, 36; Rom. 6:14, 18, 22).