Over the years I’ve heard lots of folks try to justify America’s slave-owning years with biblical references. Although it’s true the Bible tells of people owning slaves, it never promotes the practice… And certainly not the form of absolute slavery we practiced. In fact, the book of Philemon provides an excellent picture of our heavenly Father’s outlook on slave owning. The Apostle Paul actually led Philemon’s run away slave (Onesimus) to Christ and then urged Philemon to accept him back, not as a slave, but “as a dear brother” (v16).
As modern day Christians we should treat fellow Christians, family members, employees, etc., as members of the body of Christ. Unlike Philemon, we should also be ever ready to share the gospel of Jesus Christ with them. And, never, never, never are we to use people as stepping stones (or modern day slaves) in our pursuit of personal gain.
“So if you consider me a partner, welcome him as you would welcome me. If he has done you any wrong or owes you anything, charge it to me.” Philemon 1:17-18
In Christ,
PastorJimKilby @Kilbin8er
Jim@JamesKilby.com
Comments