Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, the institution of slavery is acknowledged and regulated within the cultural and legal frameworks of ancient Israel. The Hebrew term often translated as "slave" or "servant" is "ebed," which can denote a range of servitude from bondservants to hired workers. The Mosaic Law provided specific guidelines for the treatment of slaves, emphasizing humane treatment and the recognition of their dignity as human beings created in the image of God.

Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the laws concerning Hebrew slaves, stating, "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything." This regulation reflects the sabbatical principle, offering a form of release and rest. Additionally, the law required that if a slave chose to remain with his master, a formal ceremony would be conducted to signify this decision.

Leviticus 25:39-43 further instructs, "If your brother among you becomes destitute and sells himself to you, you must not force him into slave labor. Let him stay with you as a hired worker or temporary resident; he is to work for you until the Year of Jubilee." This passage highlights the temporary nature of servitude among the Israelites and the ultimate goal of restoration and freedom.

New Testament Context

In the New Testament, the Greek term "doulos" is commonly used, which can also mean "slave" or "servant." The early Christian community existed within the Roman Empire, where slavery was a widespread institution. The New Testament does not explicitly call for the abolition of slavery but rather addresses the relationships between masters and slaves, emphasizing mutual respect and the transformative power of the Gospel.

Ephesians 6:5-9 instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ... And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him." This passage calls for a radical redefinition of the master-slave relationship, grounded in the recognition of Christ's lordship over all.

The Epistle to Philemon provides a personal example of this new relationship. Paul writes to Philemon regarding Onesimus, a runaway slave who had become a Christian. Paul appeals to Philemon to receive Onesimus "no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a dear brother" (Philemon 1:16). This appeal underscores the transformative impact of Christian brotherhood, transcending social and economic barriers.

Theological Implications

The biblical perspective on slavery and servitude is deeply rooted in the understanding of human dignity and the call to love one's neighbor. While the Bible acknowledges the existence of slavery in ancient societies, it consistently points towards principles of justice, mercy, and equality before God. The ultimate trajectory of Scripture is towards freedom and redemption, as exemplified in the deliverance of Israel from Egypt and the spiritual liberation offered through Christ.

The biblical narrative encourages believers to view all individuals, regardless of social status, as equal in the eyes of God. Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This unity in Christ serves as the foundation for understanding and addressing issues of servitude and social justice within a biblical framework.