LET EVERY MAN ABIDE IN THE SAME CALLING

The principle that has already been taught regarding marriage in verses 12-16 is now applied to the wider sphere of a person’s circumstances when saved. That is to say, whatever the place or rank, whether Jew or Gentile, there should be contentment, for Christianity is more than sufficient for every person no matter what their status in life. ‘Godliness with contentment is great gain’, 1 Tim. 6. 6.

The chief thing is to sincerely seek to obey the commandments of God, v. 19, and so the external observance of circumcision or any other external ceremony is of itself of no account.

Whether one is a servant or a freeman, this will not be inconsistent with Christian duty and fulfillment; indeed it can be positively used for the Lord, the point being that believers can be useful in whatever sphere God has saved them.

It may be thought that a free and wealthy man would have greater opportunities, but this is not really so as a servant can reach his fellow servants for God. The overriding principle is that all believers are Christ’s servants, v. 22. As Lord of the life, the One who paid a great price to redeem us back from the slave market of sin, He is owed duty and service above all others.

However, if, at the time of our salvation, our occupation involves immorality or is otherwise undesirable in the light of the scriptures, we should immediately cease it upon becoming a believer. Many have been convicted of the need to stop a doubtful vocation and God has honoured them and opened up a way for them to obtain more suitable employment.

Whatever our position or status in this world, let us take up some of the words of George Matheson’s hymn:-