Slaves in the Bible

Slavery in the Bible

Q: I'd like an explanation of why it seems the Bible supports slavery.

A: I know what you mean, it struck me too, but of course God never endorses slavery itself. He came to set captives free. Slavery is satanic.

The verses that mention slaves in an apparently accepting way (ie. 1 Tim. 6:1-2 NIV) were written when the practice was commonplace and legally binding. If a Christian slave ran away, or abused his legal master, he would be a lawbreaker, and put himself in mortal jeopardy.

The Holy Spirit was simply writing to encourage Christian slaves to submit to their situation, and win their masters for the Lord. Just as Paul was illegally imprisoned, yet accepted it, and won his jailers to Christ; even in Rome, the centre of Satan's empire.

You need only look to the glorious example of African slaves dragged to America and the Caribbean, who planted a dynamic legacy of Christian living that shames their white "masters" to this day.

Additionally, the KJV often uses the word 'servant' instead of slave. A bonded-servant (which is still common) would have a more noble status than a slave in irons, but of course any kind of bondage is wrong.

Adapted for kids

The Jesus Film for Children

Breaking sinful habits

Q: I've been saved now for a little more than a year. I have a problem getting over a certain stumbling block in my life. Every time I commit the sin I become more guilty and depressed.

When I study the Word or pray it feels as though I'm distant, like I can't get my breakthrough. What should I do? Daniel.

A: Make sure you have the power baptism. It is the power to demonstrate the resurrected Christ in your daily life.

You can't do God's will without His Power

Jesus leads you in victory and peace, not failure and despair. You are failing because you are relying on your own strength, not the Spirit of God.

Think I'm beautiful?

Practising sinner

Q: Can a born again Christian have a relationship with a non-practising Christian? Amanda

A: Yikes! Where do I start? Your phrase "non-practising Christian" locates you instantly. That's UK ecumenical-speak for a phoney-Christian, a make-believer, not a believer. They are unsaved, still in their sins.