21 Were you a slave when you were called? Don't let it trouble you-although if you can gain your freedom, do so.

Other Translations of 1 Corinthians 7:21

King James Version

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

English Standard Version

21 Were you a slaveGreek bondservant; also twice in verse 22 and once in verse 23 (plural) when called? Do not be concerned about it. (But if you can gain your freedom, avail yourself of the opportunity.)

The Message

21 Were you a slave? Slavery is no roadblock to obeying and believing. I don't mean you're stuck and can't leave. If you have a chance at freedom, go ahead and take it.

New King James Version

21 Were you called while a slave? Do not be concerned about it; but if you can be made free, rather use it.

New Living Translation

21 Are you a slave? Don't let that worry you-but if you get a chance to be free, take it.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:21

Commentary on 1 Corinthians 7:17-24

(Read 1 Corinthians 7:17-24)

The rules of Christianity reach every condition; and in every state a man may live so as to be a credit to it. It is the duty of every Christian to be content with his lot, and to conduct himself in his rank and place as becomes a Christian. Our comfort and happiness depend on what we are to Christ, not what we are in the world. No man should think to make his faith or religion, an argument to break through any natural or civil obligations. He should quietly and contentedly abide in the condition in which he is placed by Divine Providence.