The Life That the Lord Has Assigned.^* 17Only, everyone should live as the Lord has assigned, just as God called each one. I give this order in all the churches. 18Was someone called after he had been circumcised? He should not try to undo his circumcision. Was an uncircumcised person called? He should not be circumcised.^e 19Circumcision means nothing, and uncircumcision means nothing; what matters is keeping God’s commandments.^f 20Everyone should remain in the state in which he was called.

21Were you a slave when you were called? Do not be concerned but, even if you can gain your freedom, make the most of it. 22For the slave called in the Lord is a freed person in the Lord, just as the free person who has been called is a slave of Christ.^g 23You have been purchased at a price. Do not become slaves to human beings.^h 24Brothers, everyone should continue before God in the state in which he was called.