1 Corinthians 7:24

COL 27; SC 82

Therein abide. This verse repeats the exhortation contained in v. 20. Why is this repetition made? Doubtless to emphasize the fact that Christianity does not seek to overturn or abolish any existing social order. The church of the living God is not placed in the world to disorganize human society, but, on the contrary, to bind it together. Christians may rightly consider that slavery is an evil practice and should not exist among civilized people. But it was permitted by God in His laws for ancient Israel (see Lev. 25:44-46; see on Deut. 14:26). His permission did not always indicate His approval. His permission in divorce was typical: “Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives” (Matt. 19:8). The Christian missionary to heathen lands does not try violently to overthrow established customs and practices when he sees that they are contrary to the teachings of Jesus. He knows that such a course would not advance the cause of truth, but would close the avenue to further missionary effort. The faithful proclamation of the gospel, attended by the power of the Holy Spirit, will work a reformation in the lives of all who accept it, and then there will be seen a change in the social system that will bring it into harmony with truth.

The instruction in this verse should not be looked upon as forbidding the Christian to seek to be delivered from slavery, if he can do so lawfully. It does suggest that he be content to wait for the Lord to guide him in the matter. If the Lord does not see fit to open the way to freedom, then the believing slave should be content to serve the Lord where he is. He is to remember that he can serve God effectually while he is serving his earthly master (see 1 Cor. 7:22). He must not bring scandal to the church by creating the impression among unbelievers that the spirit of Christianity is one of insubordination. All may live out the faith of Jesus at all times, witnessing for Him before all with whom they come in contact, and in that way spreading the knowledge of truth (see SC 81,82).

With God. The glorious thing about the religion of Jesus Christ is that the believer is not left to walk life’s journey alone. He is accepted into the family of God while here on earth, and has the companionship of heavenly angels and of the Lord Himself (see Matt. 28:20; John 14:16-18, 21; 15:7). Whatever experiences he may be called upon to pass through, he has the comforting knowledge that he is not alone; there is One with him who knows and understands all the problems and heartaches. To all who love and trust Him, the assurance is given that even in the most perplexing situations they will not be left without help (see Isa. 43:2; Heb. 13:5). When the believer realizes this, he will be content to remain in the place assigned to him in life, whatever that may be. When, as a result of fellowship with Jesus, the believer learns to regard his work as primarily that of doing the Lord’s will, and all his possessions as means for more effectively serving Him, then he will enjoy peace of mind and satisfaction that is not known by unbelievers (see Isa. 26:3; John 14:27).