17. But to each one as the Lord has apportioned. As God has called each one, thus let him live—and thus I order in all the churches.
18. Was anyone called after being circumcised? He must not undo his circumcision. Was anyone called in uncircumcision? He must not become circumcised.
19. Circumcision is nothing and uncircumcision is nothing, but the keeping of the commandments of God.
20. Each one in the calling in which he was called—in this he should remain.
21. Were you called while a slave? Do not let it be a concern to you. But if indeed you are able to become free, rather make use of it.
22. For the one who is called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedperson. Likewise the one who is called while free is a slave of Christ.
23. You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men.
24. Each one in the situation in which he was called, brothers—in this he should remain with God.
25. Now concerning virgins I do not have a command from the Lord, but I am giving an opinion as one shown mercy by the Lord to be trustworthy.
26. Therefore, I consider this to be good because of the impending distress, that it is good for a man to be thus.