Now Paul turns his attention to the relationship between slaves and masters. Some criticise Paul for not being vehemently against slavery, or even accuse him of being pro-slavery. Such charges are without foundation and display a lack of understanding. Slavery was an integral part of society, so much so that it would be difficult to imagine life without slavery. Even if Paul had turned directly against slavery it is unlikely that he would have got very far.
However, the key point is that the approach Paul takes is actually far more effective and timeless. What he does is to encourage both slaves and masters to have the right attitude. Slaves are to do their work well, not just when the boss is watching. Moreover they are to do their work as if working for the Lord. These principles can be applied to all workers today. Whatever our job, we should do it as if Jesus Himself was our employer.
Masters were to treat their slaves with respect. In society they might be the ones with the upper hand, but in God's eyes all are treated the same. They are answerable to God, and so should treat their workers properly. Again, this can be applied to all work situations today.
Even though slavery has formally been abolished, thanks in no small part to the tireless campaigning of Wilberforce, it still exists. There are parts of the world where it exists, and even in the West, particularly in the sex trade. There are cases too of workers from Eastern Europe being terribly exploited. Even in situations which are "normal" we all know of instances where bosses exploit or bully their workers. Now it is good to have good laws and rules, but in themselves they do not guarantee anything. Paul's instructions are such that against them there is no law, they are applicable in all situations.
However, the key point is that the approach Paul takes is actually far more effective and timeless. What he does is to encourage both slaves and masters to have the right attitude. Slaves are to do their work well, not just when the boss is watching. Moreover they are to do their work as if working for the Lord. These principles can be applied to all workers today. Whatever our job, we should do it as if Jesus Himself was our employer.
Masters were to treat their slaves with respect. In society they might be the ones with the upper hand, but in God's eyes all are treated the same. They are answerable to God, and so should treat their workers properly. Again, this can be applied to all work situations today.
Even though slavery has formally been abolished, thanks in no small part to the tireless campaigning of Wilberforce, it still exists. There are parts of the world where it exists, and even in the West, particularly in the sex trade. There are cases too of workers from Eastern Europe being terribly exploited. Even in situations which are "normal" we all know of instances where bosses exploit or bully their workers. Now it is good to have good laws and rules, but in themselves they do not guarantee anything. Paul's instructions are such that against them there is no law, they are applicable in all situations.
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