1 Corinthians 7:21

Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather.

Word-by-Word Analysis

δοῦλος

G1401

being a servant

a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)

ἐκλήθης

G2564

Art thou called

to "call" (properly, aloud, but used in a variety of applications, directly or otherwise)

μή

G3361

not

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

σοι

G4671

to thee

μελέτω·

G3199

care

to be of interest to, i.e., to concern (only third person singular present indicative used impersonally, it matters)

ἀλλ'

G235

but

properly, other things, i.e., (adverbially) contrariwise (in many relations)

εἰ

G1487

if, whether, that, etc

καὶ

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

δύνασαι

G1410

thou mayest

to be able or possible

#10

ἐλεύθερος

G1658

free

unrestrained (to go at pleasure), i.e., (as a citizen) not a slave (whether freeborn or manumitted), or (genitive case) exempt (from obligation or lia

#11

γενέσθαι

G1096

be made

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

#12

μᾶλλον

G3123

it rather

(adverbially) more (in a greater degree)) or rather

#13

χρῆσαι

G5530

use

to furnish what is needed; (give an oracle, "graze" (touch slightly), light upon, etc.), i.e., (by implication) to employ or (by extension) to act tow

Analysis

The salvation theme here intersects with the metanarrative of redemption running from Genesis to Revelation. Biblical theology recognizes this as part of a unified storyline from the promise in Genesis 3:15 to its fulfillment in Christ. The phrase emphasizing divine revelation contributes to our systematic understanding of Christian doctrine and connects to the broader scriptural witness about God's saving work from the Exodus to the cross.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection

How does this verse's literary context within 1 Corinthians chapter 7 illuminate its theological significance, and what does this teach us about biblical interpretation?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?
How does this passage contribute to our understanding of from physical deliverance in the Old Testament to spiritual redemption in the New, and what implications does this have for Christian discipleship?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Topics

Love