How should "slaves regard their masters" according to 1 Timothy 6:1? The Command Stated “All who are under the yoke of slavery should consider their masters worthy of full respect, so that God’s name and our teaching will not be discredited.” (1 Timothy 6:1) What “worthy of full respect” Means • Treat the master with honor in words, tone, and actions • Work diligently, giving the best effort even when unnoticed • Avoid disrespectful talk, grumbling, or undermining authority • Maintain an attitude of submission that reflects inner reverence for Christ Motivation Behind the Command • Preserve God’s reputation—“so that God’s name … will not be discredited” • Uphold the credibility of apostolic teaching—living proof that the gospel transforms hearts • Display Christlike humility in a social setting where believers might otherwise be tempted to rebel or resent Related Passages That Echo the Theme • Ephesians 6:5-8 — Serve “with respect and fear … as you would obey Christ.” • Colossians 3:22-24 — Work “not only while being watched … but with sincerity of heart, fearing the Lord.” • 1 Peter 2:18 — “Submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but even to those who are unreasonable.” • Titus 2:9-10 — Be “subject to their own masters in everything … so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.” Timeless Principles for Today • Honor earthly authorities—even flawed ones—to honor the ultimate authority of God • Let gospel conduct speak louder than social grievances • See all labor as service rendered to Christ, the true Master (Colossians 3:24) • Use every station in life as a platform to enhance, not hinder, the spread of God’s word |
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