A Mature Church Upends The Culture of Slavery

A compelling example of a Christlike transformation in a former slave owner is John Newton. Though Newton was once deeply involved in the transatlantic slave trade, his journey toward embodying Christlike virtues is a powerful story of repentance and redemption.

Early in his life, Newton captained slave ships, profiting from human suffering. However, after a dramatic conversion to Christianity, he slowly came to understand the deep evil of slavery and the sinfulness of his actions.

Newton’s transformation took time, but it was profound.

After becoming a clergyman, he began to speak out against the slave trade.

In his influential pamphlet Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade (1788), he confessed the horrors of slavery and expressed profound regret for his involvement.

Newton wrote, “I hope it will always be a subject of humiliating reflection to me, that I was once an active instrument in a business at which my heart now shudders.”

Newton’s Christlike transformation didn’t stop with his personal repentance.

He played a key role in inspiring the abolitionist movement in England, particularly influencing William Wilberforce, the British politician who became one of the leading figures in the fight to end the slave trade.

Newton’s guidance and mentorship were crucial in Wilberforce’s decision to dedicate his life to the cause of abolition. Newton, who had once been part of the system, now used his influence to encourage others to act justly and stand against oppression.

In his later years, Newton’s deep humility and service to others reflected the heart of Christ.

His influence on Wilberforce and the abolition movement contributed to the eventual passing of the Slave Trade Act of 1807, which abolished the slave trade in the British Empire.

Newton’s story is a powerful testimony of how a heart truly transformed by Christ can go from participating in great evil to leading others in the fight for justice and mercy. (Source: John Newton, Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade, 1788.)

Slavery is a difficult subject to bring up.

We, as a country were involved in the brutal and wicked practice in our own country.

To consider that our forefathers either owned slaves or were actually slaves is such a horrific thought.

The problem that we face as we read the Scriptures is the Bible reports on Slavery and in some cases in the Old Testament in particular, seems to support it.

How are we supposed to reconcile this with the teachings of Christ?

First let’s describe slavery during the time of Paul.

Slavery was a common practice. Around 30-40% of the population in a city like Rome were slaves. Slavery was not based on race but on circumstance. One could be a slave because of mismanagement of their money, being a victim of war or piracy, or even by choice. In addition, slavery was not always a permanent situation.

Slaves occupied many roles, depending on their skills and education. Some worked in harsh conditions in mines or on farms, while others served as household servants, teachers, accountants, or doctors. Educated slaves, particularly those from Greece, were highly valued and sometimes enjoyed significant responsibilities. Such slaves often had relative autonomy and could manage their masters' estates or businesses.

Slaves were treated differently based on their circumstances. Some were treated well, while others suffered terribly. In Roman law, the slave owner had absolute authority over the slave, meaning the owner could punish or even kill the slave at will.

However, slaves in the Roman world had a certain level of social mobility. Once freed, they could live like the rest of the culture, owning property, running businesses, and accumulating wealth.

In the early Christian communities, both slaves and masters were part of the body of Christ.

Paul’s teaching on spiritual equality (Galatians 3:28) was revolutionary in a world with rigid societal divisions.

He urged Christian masters to treat their slaves fairly and kindly (Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 4:1), and advised slaves to serve their masters as if they were serving Christ (Colossians 3:22-24). 1

So, when we look at the issue of slavery in Paul’s time, we must understand that slavery was so interwoven into the culture that for Paul to actively preach against it would have risked turning Christianity into merely a social justice movement, instead of the life-changing rescue mission it really was and still is!

By the way, Paul was not for slavery. Listen again to his words to Timothy in chapter 1:

1 Timothy 1:8–11 (ESV)

Now we know that the law is good, if one uses it lawfully, understanding this, that the law is not laid down for the just but for the lawless and disobedient, for the ungodly and sinners, for the unholy and profane, for those who strike their fathers and mothers, for murderers, the sexually immoral, men who practice homosexuality, enslavers, liars, perjurers, and whatever else is contrary to sound doctrine, in accordance with the gospel of the glory of the blessed God with which I have been entrusted.

Paul, as you see in this passage, is not blatantly working to abolish slavery, but subversively, through the powerful, life-changing witness of slaves and owners, he shows an entirely new way for them to function with one another.

And this is the point, isn’t it?

We change any culture by introducing people to Jesus Christ, leading them to salvation, and making them disciples of Jesus Christ.

A mature disciple of Christ will be an amazing spouse.

A mature disciple of Christ will be the best parent their children could ask for.

A mature disciple of Christ will be the best child to his or her parents.

Our Christian lives should change everything.

Jesus changes everything!

Christians cannot live according to the mandates of the culture.

Main Idea: Christians Must Live Counter to the Culture!

1. Christian Slaves Actually Serve Christ (vs. 1) -

1 Timothy 6:1 (ESV)

Let all who are under a yoke as bondservants regard their own masters as worthy of all honor, so that the name of God and the teaching may not be reviled.

The text calls Christian slaves to serve their masters well so that the name of God and His teaching are not disrespected…

A compelling story of Christlike behavior from an American slave is that of Reverend Peter Randolph, a man born into slavery in Virginia in 1825.

Randolph was enslaved for over 20 years but lived a life exemplifying forgiveness, patience, and Christian love.

His story is recorded in his autobiography, "Sketches of Slave Life, or, Illustrations of the Peculiar Institution."

Randolph, after gaining freedom, devoted his life to preaching the gospel and advocating for both racial equality and Christian unity.

Even after his brutal treatment as a slave, he did not harbor bitterness but continued to serve others with grace.

One account speaks of his persistence in Christian love despite his experiences of injustice.

In his writings, Randolph encouraged those who suffered to trust in God’s providence, mirroring Christ's own call to love one's enemies and do good to those who persecute you.

Randolph’s Christlike character stands out in how he refrained from seeking revenge, choosing instead to bring hope and encouragement to his fellow men.

His gentle spirit, even in the face of great suffering, exemplifies the principles laid out in passages like 1 Timothy 6:1-2, calling slaves to respect their masters so that the name of God would not be reviled.

Randolph lived this out through his work as a preacher and an advocate for justice and Christian morality.

(Source: Peter Randolph, Sketches of Slave Life, 1855.)

Obviously, slavery is not an issue for our culture like it was back then.

So how can we apply this to our day today?

But most all of us have a job. We work so we can make a living and survive.

In this sense, we are functional slaves.

And we have a responsibility not only to our employer, but more importantly to our God to be the best employee they have.

Colossians 3:23–24 (ESV)

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

The reality is we are servants of the most high God. He is our Lord and we are His servants!

In fact, understand this, the word servant can legitimately be translated slave.

Listen to how John MacArthur finishes his book called “Slave.”

“Over the last twelve chapters we have considered the crucial difference between servants and slaves- noting that while servants are hired, slaves are owned.

Believers are not merely Christ’s hired servants; they are His slaves, belonging to Him as His possession. He is their Owner and Master, worthy of their unquestioned allegiance and absolute obedience.

His Word is their final authority; His will their ultimate mandate.

Having taken up their cross to follow Him, they have died to themselves and can now say with Paul, “I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live but Christ lives in me” (Gal. 2:20).

As the apostle elsewhere explained, “[Christ] died for all, so that they who live might no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and rose again on their behalf” (2 Cor. 5:15).

In reality, all of life should be viewed from that perspective. As Christians, we are slaves of Christ.

What a radical difference that truth should make in our daily lives! We no longer live for ourselves. Rather, we make it our aim to please the Master in everything.” ― John F. MacArthur Jr., Slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ

When Christians understand and live out the fact that Jesus is Lord, obedience to Him becomes non-optional.

And, by the way, our Lord and Master is not evil. He is good!

Because He is good, we can trust that submitting to His Kingly leadership is for our good.

Christian, how are you doing at work?

Are you doing the bare minimum because your boss doesn’t deserve your full effort?

Are you slacking off because your boss is difficult?

Don’t forget: Jesus is your Boss. You are working for Him, and He deserves your best effort.

He deserves your hard work.

Review - Christians must live counter to their culture

Christian Slaves Actually Serve Christ

2. Christian Masters Actually Serve Christ Too (vs. 2) -

1 Timothy 6:2 (ESV)

Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these things.

The title of this sermon is "A Mature Church Upends the Culture of Slavery."

What this means is that when a Christian slave and a Christian master live out their Christian principles in their relationship, they take out the (very real) negatives of slavery.

Think about it from a Galatians 2:20 perspective.

The slave reads the verse…

Galatians 2:20 (ESV)

I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.

The slave says to himself, “So, I am a slave, and I am a follower of Jesus. Jesus lives in me, so I must not hinder Him from living through me. I must do whatever I can to live like Christ, even as a slave.”

In the scenario Paul mentions in verse 2, the slave’s master is also a believer.

This is a great situation, isn’t it?

A believing slave and a believing master, both with the goal of acting like Christ.

What are some of the benefits?

Let me give you some…

Mutual Respect and Dignity: The Christian master would view the slave not merely as property but as a brother in Christ (Philemon 16). This upends the common view of slaves as less than human and elevates them to equal status in terms of value and dignity before God. The master would, in turn, treat the slave with kindness, respect, and fairness, knowing that both are fellow heirs of God's kingdom (Galatians 3:28). Likewise, the Christian slave would serve faithfully, not merely out of obligation but out of reverence for Christ, knowing that his service is ultimately to the Lord (Ephesians 6:7).

Christlike Humility: Both the master and the slave are called to emulate Christ’s humility. The master, though in a position of power, would mirror Christ’s example of servant leadership, considering the needs and well-being of the slave as greater than his own (Philippians 2:3-8). Similarly, the slave, empowered by the life of Christ within, would seek to glorify God through his service, despite his earthly position.

A Testimony to the World: A relationship between a Christian master and a Christian slave that is marked by love, respect, and mutual service would stand in stark contrast to the oppressive and often brutal relationships seen in Roman society. Their bond would be a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of the gospel. It would show that in Christ, social hierarchies are not what define a person's worth or status.

An Environment of Grace and Forgiveness: In a relationship where both are believers, the gospel’s message of forgiveness and grace would permeate. When wrongs are done, there would be a deeper understanding and expectation of reconciliation, rather than punishment or retribution. The master would be quick to forgive the slave’s mistakes, and the slave would be quick to offer forgiveness if wronged.

Eternal Perspective: Both the master and the slave, as believers, would share a common eternal hope. They would know that their earthly roles, while significant, are temporary. Both of them would look to their eternal inheritance in Christ, which helps to shape their attitudes and actions in the present. This eternal perspective helps them endure difficulties and see their lives through the lens of God's kingdom, where the values of this world are turned upside down.

In essence, by both living out their Christian principles, the slave and the master are able to transcend the oppressive realities of slavery.

The Christian faith, when genuinely lived out, begins to undermine the very institution of slavery by replacing exploitation with mutual love, and domination with humility.

It is an expression of the "new creation" (2 Corinthians 5:17) that Christ brings, in which the structures of the old world begin to crumble under the weight of the gospel's transformative power.

But Paul sends a warning in verse 2. This is interesting. Look again at the text…

1 Timothy 6:2 (ESV)

Those who have believing masters must not be disrespectful on the ground that they are brothers; rather they must serve all the better since those who benefit by their good service are believers and beloved. Teach and urge these things.

What is Paul saying?

He is saying that the believing slaves should not take advantage of their believing masters simply because they are brothers in Christ.

A true believing master would extend Christian kindness and grace. In other words, there is still a working relationship that needs to be honored.

There is still a job to be done.

Now, in other passages, Paul holds believing masters accountable, telling them to treat their slaves well.

But here, he wants to make sure that the believing slave doesn’t take advantage of their believing masters.

Ephesians 6:9 (ESV)

Masters, do the same to them, and stop your threatening, knowing that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and that there is no partiality with him.

Colossians 4:1 (ESV)

Masters, treat your bondservants justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.

Christians should never take advantage of anyone—especially, we should never take advantage of the good graces of our fellow believers.

There is an amazing story in the Scriptures about a slave and a slave owner that illustrates Paul’s point very well. I’m going to read it to you and make some comments along the way:

Philemon 1–25 (ESV)

Paul, a prisoner for Christ Jesus, and Timothy our brother, To Philemon our beloved fellow worker and Apphia our sister and Archippus our fellow soldier, and the church in your house: Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God always when I remember you in my prayers, because I hear of your love and of the faith that you have toward the Lord Jesus and for all the saints, and I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective for the full knowledge of every good thing that is in us for the sake of Christ. For I have derived much joy and comfort from your love, my brother, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you. Accordingly, though I am bold enough in Christ to command you to do what is required, yet for love’s sake I prefer to appeal to you—I, Paul, an old man and now a prisoner also for Christ Jesus— I appeal to you for my child, Onesimus, whose father I became in my imprisonment. (Formerly he was useless to you, but now he is indeed useful to you and to me.) I am sending him back to you, sending my very heart. I would have been glad to keep him with me, in order that he might serve me on your behalf during my imprisonment for the gospel, but I preferred to do nothing without your consent in order that your goodness might not be by compulsion but of your own accord. For this perhaps is why he was parted from you for a while, that you might have him back forever, no longer as a bondservant but more than a bondservant, as a beloved brother—especially to me, but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord. So if you consider me your partner, receive him as you would receive me. If he has wronged you at all, or owes you anything, charge that to my account. I, Paul, write this with my own hand: I will repay it—to say nothing of your owing me even your own self. Yes, brother, I want some benefit from you in the Lord. Refresh my heart in Christ. Confident of your obedience, I write to you, knowing that you will do even more than I say. At the same time, prepare a guest room for me, for I am hoping that through your prayers I will be graciously given to you. Epaphras, my fellow prisoner in Christ Jesus, sends greetings to you, and so do Mark, Aristarchus, Demas, and Luke, my fellow workers. The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.

Explain…

Again, we can relate this to our culture.

Employees are to work hard.

Ephesians 6:5–6 (ESV)

Bondservants, obey your earthly masters with fear and trembling, with a sincere heart, as you would Christ, not by the way of eye-service, as people-pleasers, but as bondservants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart,

Colossians 3:23–24 (ESV)

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.

Employees are not to take advantage of their employers—especially if they are fellow believers in Christ. Believers are never to take advantage of God's grace or the grace extended by those who follow Jesus.

Review - Christians must live counter to their culture

Christian Slaves Actually Serve Christ

Christian Masters Actually Serve Christ Too

Conclusion: What happens when Christians live counter to their culture?

When Christian slaves and masters—or, in our context, employees and employers—live out their faith, they upend societal norms.

They live in such a way that the world cannot help but notice the difference.

A Christian employee who works as if for the Lord will be diligent, honest, and hardworking.

A Christian employer who serves Christ will treat their employees with kindness, fairness, and respect.

This applies to us today in every sphere of life—at work, in our families, in our communities.

Are we living out our faith in such a way that it upends the culture around us?

Do we reflect Christ in our actions, both as workers and leaders?

Imagine a workplace where every Christian worked wholeheartedly as unto the Lord.

Imagine the respect, integrity, and humility that would define every relationship.

In such a workplace, we wouldn’t see mediocrity or people taking advantage of each other, but rather a beautiful picture of the kingdom of God at work.

What if each of us lived as though our ultimate boss were Jesus Himself?

How might that change the way we work, treat others, and reflect Christ in our everyday lives?

Imagine the testimony that would bring to the world around us.

When my kids each got their first job I would remind them that Christians ought to be the best employees because through their job they are working for the best boss imaginable, Jesus Christ!

(1) Sources:

Keith Bradley, Slavery and Society at Rome (Cambridge University Press, 1994).

Peter Garnsey, Ideas of Slavery from Aristotle to Augustine (Cambridge University Press, 1996).

J. Albert Harrill, Slaves in the New Testament: Literary, Social, and Moral Dimensions (Fortress Press, 2006).

Wayne A. Meeks, The First Urban Christians: The Social World of the Apostle Paul (Yale University Press, 1983).

John Byron, Recent Research on Paul and Slavery (Sheffield Phoenix Press, 2008).

Dale Martin, Slavery as Salvation: The Metaphor of Slavery in Pauline Christianity (Yale University Press, 1990).