Christian Servitude - Part 1

Last time, we examined the question, taken from the first word of the fifth verse: Who are these Servants? We began to understand that within the Biblical culture and the Classical world, it was not merely a matter of being a freeman or an absolute slave. Servitude was and is a complicated business. Within the strict context of the Epistle to the Ephesian Christians, it is clear that this servitude is certainly a form of slavery, but certainly one with perks and benefits, allowing the bond-servant to hear the Gospel, come to saving faith, attend public worship, and therefore to have some fellowship with other believers. Now, the Apostle gives specific exhortations to such as have earthly masters regarding their Christian witness within such Providential confines. There are also lessons to be learned for those who are not salves, but have a boss or a manager over them, especially in work that they do only to pay their way in life, and not for pleasure or personal-development:

1. The Honest Obedience

2. The Humble Heart

3. The Holy Master

4. The Heavenly Reward