Let as many servants as are under the yoke count their own
masters worthy of all honour, that the name of God and his doctrine be
not blasphemed. 2 And
they that have believing masters, let them not despise them, because
they are brethren; but rather do them service, because they are faithful
and beloved, partakers of the benefit. These things teach and exhort.
Even if a Christian
is a slave, he is not to look down upon his master because he is a not a believer.
Instead, slaves are to honor their masters and serve them well. In so doing,
the name of God and Christian doctrines such as love, forgiveness, and
transformation will not be blasphemed, but honored and exalted as true. And if
a slave has a Believer for master, all the more to glory! He should not look
down on his master because they are both believers, but should be faithful.
These things, Paul commands to teach and exhort. It is interesting that Paul
never talks about a rebellion to end slavery. Instead, he focuses on the main
issue which is not whether one is free or not, but the condition of one’s heart
toward others, especially those who are your authority.
God does say in Romans that if there
is any way to be free, get free, but be content if not.
1 Tim 6:1-2 (KJV)
