This article delves into the topic of Bible verses about slavery and its variations.
While the Bible acknowledges the existence of slavery during ancient times, it does not necessarily condone it.
The Old Testament provides regulations for the treatment of slaves, including fair treatment and release after a certain period of time.
The New Testament emphasizes the equality of all people in Christ, regardless of their social status.
This article also suggests relevant chapters to read for further insight into the laws and regulations surrounding slavery in ancient Israel.
Bible verses about slavery
Here are twelve powerful Bible verses about slavery:
1. Exodus 21:16 – “And he that stealeth a man, and selleth him, or if he be found in his hand, he shall surely be put to death.”
2. Leviticus 25:39-40 – “And if thy brother that dwelleth by thee be waxen poor, and be sold unto thee; thou shalt not compel him to serve as a bondservant: But as an hired servant, and as a sojourner, he shall be with thee, and shall serve thee unto the year of jubile.”
3. Deuteronomy 23:15-16 – “Thou shalt not deliver unto his master the servant which is escaped from his master unto thee: He shall dwell with thee, even among you, in that place which he shall choose in one of thy gates, where it liketh him best: thou shalt not oppress him.”
4. Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.”
5. Colossians 4:1 – “Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven.”
6. Philemon 1:15-16 – “For perhaps he therefore departed for a season, that thou shouldest receive him for ever; Not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord?”
7. 1 Timothy 1:10 – “For whoremongers, for them that defile themselves with mankind, for menstealers, for liars, for perjured persons, and if there be any other thing that is contrary to sound doctrine;”
8. Ephesians 6:5 – “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;”
9. 1 Peter 2:18 – “Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.”
10. Titus 2:9-10 – “Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; Not purloining, but shewing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.”
11. 1 Corinthians 7:21-23 – “Art thou called being a servant? care not for it: but if thou mayest be made free, use it rather. For he that is called in the Lord, being a servant, is the Lord’s freeman: likewise also he that is called, being free, is Christ’s servant. Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.”
12. Philemon 1:10-11 – “I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds: Which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me:”
What does the Bible say about slavery?
The Bible acknowledges the existence of slavery during ancient times, but it does not necessarily condone it.
The Old Testament provides regulations for the treatment of slaves, including fair treatment and release after a certain period of time.
The New Testament emphasizes the equality of all people in Christ, regardless of their social status.
It also encourages slaves to seek their freedom if possible, but to serve their masters with respect and obedience in the meantime.
Overall, the Bible does not promote or endorse slavery as a desirable or acceptable institution.
What Bible chapters should you read if you want to learn more about slavery?
1. Exodus 21 – This chapter contains laws regarding Hebrew slaves, including the rules for their release and the punishment for mistreating them. It also includes guidelines for the treatment of female slaves.
2. Leviticus 25 – This chapter outlines the laws for the Year of Jubilee, which was a time when all slaves were to be released and debts forgiven. It also includes instructions for the treatment of foreign slaves.
3. Deuteronomy 15 – This chapter contains instructions for the release of Hebrew slaves after six years of service. It also includes guidelines for the treatment of poor and needy people.
These chapters are relevant to slavery because they provide insight into the laws and regulations surrounding slavery in ancient Israel. They also demonstrate the importance of treating slaves with dignity and respect, and the responsibility of slave owners to care for their slaves. Additionally, these chapters show that slavery was a part of the culture and society of the time, but that there were laws in place to protect the rights of slaves.
Ideas and concepts related to slavery that are also taught or mentioned in the Bible.
1. Servanthood: In the Bible, servanthood is a concept that is closely related to slavery. Servants were individuals who were owned by their masters and were required to work for them. However, unlike slaves, servants had certain rights and were treated with more dignity and respect.
2. Redemption: The concept of redemption is also closely related to slavery in the Bible. In the Old Testament, God redeemed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. In the New Testament, Jesus’ death and resurrection are seen as a form of redemption for all humanity.
3. Freedom: The Bible also talks about the concept of freedom, which is the opposite of slavery. In the Old Testament, God promised to free the Israelites from slavery in Egypt. In the New Testament, Jesus’ teachings emphasize the importance of spiritual freedom and liberation from sin.
4. Justice: The Bible also emphasizes the importance of justice, particularly for those who are oppressed and enslaved. In the Old Testament, God commands the Israelites to treat their slaves fairly and justly. In the New Testament, Jesus’ teachings emphasize the importance of treating all people with love and respect, regardless of their social status.
Overall, the Bible addresses the concept of slavery in various ways, emphasizing the importance of treating all people with dignity and respect, and promoting freedom and justice for all.
