17. But each of you should remain in the place in life that the Lord has given you. Stay as you were when God chose you. That's the rule all the churches must follow.
18. Was a man already circumcised when God chose him? Then he should not become uncircumcised. Was he uncircumcised when God chose him? Then he should not be circumcised.
19. Being circumcised means nothing. Being uncircumcised means nothing. Doing what God commands is what counts.
20. Each of you should stay as you were when God chose you.
21. Were you a slave when God chose you? Don't let it trouble you. But if you can get your master to set you free, do it.
22. Those who were slaves when the Lord chose them are now the Lord's free people. Those who were free when God chose them are now slaves of Christ.
23. Christ has paid the price for you. Don't become slaves of human beings.
24. Brothers and sisters, you are accountable to God. So all of you should stay as you were when God chose you.
25. Now I want to say something about virgins. I have no direct command from the Lord. But I give my opinion. Because of the Lord's mercy, I give it as one who can be trusted.
26. Times are hard for you right now. So I think it's good for you to stay as you are.
27. Are you married? Then don't get a divorce. Are you single? Then don't look for a wife.