Remain

1 Corinthians 7:17–40

Remain

Bill White Updated Staff Photo

Bill White

Teaching Pastor; Staff Governing Elder; Staff Director

In this passage, Paul presents a guiding principle for the Corinthians: that they should remain as they were when Christ first called them. This rule is not absolute—Paul does not create unnecessary restraints and allows for individual freedom. But ultimately his desire is that they find freedom from their status in this world, trusting God to meet them where they are to best serve the mission of Jesus.

Application

  1. In seasons of discontentment, pain, or anxiety, what does it mean to you to know that Jesus understands exactly what you’re feeling and experiencing?

  2. Where do you tend to find yourself preoccupied with your status in this world (e.g., your wealth, health, social standing, success, appearance)? What would it look like for you to shift your focus from the temporary to the eternal? What decisions would you make that reflect a desire to move God’s Kingdom forward?

Key Points

  • Our freedom and identity are not determined by our status in this world but by our relationship with Jesus.

  • We don’t need to change our circumstances to be closer to God; he is already with us.

  • We can do what Jesus wants us to do right where we are.

  • The things of this world are passing away, but our future with Jesus is secure and eternal.

Other Scripture References

1 Timothy 6:9–10

Matthew 6:31–32

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