What About Slavery, Paul? 1 Timothy 6:1-2 Slavery in History… World history is filled with various types of slavery. Hebrew servanthood. Roman slavery. Indentured servitude. African slave trade. Biblical history is filled with various perspectives on slavery. Slavery is not a part of creation; it is a product of sin. Specific situations in a sinful world warrant specific instructions to a sinful world. Biblical instructions concerning slavery do not imply biblical approval of slavery. Slavery in Scripture… The Bible condemns slavery. Slavery that undermines God’s creation. We have equal dignity before God. We are equally submissive to God. We will receive equal justice from God. Slavery that violates God’s Word. The Bible denounces physical abuse. The Bible denounces human trafficking. The Bible regulates slavery. God mandates physical protection for slaves. God requires financial provision for slaves. God ensures caring supervision of slaves. God promotes (and in some ways guarantees) eventual freedom from slavery. The Bible encourages slaves. Honor unbelieving masters. For the glory of God. For the advancement of the gospel. Christianity is not aimed primarily at social reform. Christianity is aimed primarily at personal redemption. Respect believing masters. Work wholeheartedly. Serve selflessly. The Bible redeems slavery. The beauty of Christ… Our Master has become our servant. The essence of Christianity… We gladly become His slave. Permissions: You are permitted and encouraged to reproduce and distribute this material provided that you do not alter it in any way, use the material in its entirety, and do not charge a fee beyond the cost of reproduction. For web posting, a link to the media on our website is preferred. Any exceptions to the above must be approved by Radical. Please include the following statement on any distributed copy: By David Platt. © David Platt & Radical. Website: Radical.net
