Note 9 at 1 Cor. 7:23: This appears to be contrary to what Paul had just said in verse 21, but of course, it isn't. Although Paul told slaves to submit here, other instructions to slaves made it clear that they were actually serving Christ, not man (Eph. 6:5-7; Col. 3:22-24). When this attitude is adopted, then the bondage is removed from slavery. The Christian slave cannot be forced to do what he freely offers to do.

Note 10 at 1 Cor. 7:23: Slavery is not a major issue in the world today as it was in the past. Yet, these same principles apply in many areas of our modern day lives. We could easily substitute the words employer and employee for masters and slaves. These truths will work in any relationship where one person is in authority over another.