July 19, 2018 9:24 am
Being aware of human trafficking and slavery you would want to find a clear answer to the problem/question in the Bible. But in Paul’s writings and the rest of the Bible, it seems to send a mixed message! Paul does not condemn slavery nor does he promote it. In Exodus 21 there are guidelines for when Israelites sold themselves into slavery (bond servant). Many of Paul’s letters mention slaves and masters, and how they are to view and treat each other:
slaves to master– Ephesians 6:5, Colossians 3:22, 1 Timothy 6:1,2a, Titus 2:9
master to slaves– Ephesians 6:9 Colossians 4:1; 1 Timothy 6:2b
So how should slavery be viewed? The answer is one of the basic teachings of Christianity and is found in many places in Scripture: Luke 6:31 – do to others as you would have them do to you; Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14 – Love your neighbor as yourself. Slavery is wrong because no one wants to be treated and used as slaves!
Posted by Mark
Categories: Bible Study, Things Paul Wrote On
Tags: Exodus 21, slaves in the Bible
Mobile Site | Full Site
Get a free blog at WordPress.com Theme: WordPress Mobile Edition by Alex King.
[…] verse 25, He meets them where they are and talks about leaders (megas) and servants (diakonos). See Paul and Slaves. Mom’s question makes you think about the disciples’ question in Chapter […]
By Last and First – Matthew 17 to 21 | Mark's Bible Study on June 2, 2023 at 6:22 pm
[…] Paul clearly spoke against the slave traders but not owners. The instructions to both the owner and the slave was to do right by the other. Paul did encourage slaves to gain their freedom, if possible. […]
By Things Paul Wrote About – Reflections on Slaves | Mark's Bible Study on August 13, 2018 at 1:19 pm