What does "obey your earthly masters" mean for Christians today? The Verse at a Glance “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only while being watched and in order to please men, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord.” (Colossians 3:22) Original Setting: Slaves and Masters in Colossae • In the first-century Roman world, slavery was an established social structure. • Paul addresses believers who were legally slaves, instructing them on Christ-honoring conduct within that reality. • The command does not endorse slavery as good; it regulates the relationship and seeds the attitudes that ultimately undermine exploitative systems (cf. Philemon). Timeless Principle: Honor Legitimate Authority • Scripture consistently calls believers to submit to earthly authorities God has allowed (Romans 13:1–2; 1 Peter 2:13–18). • The core issue is respect for God’s ordained order, reflecting trust in His sovereignty. • The command is “in everything,” yet never above God’s higher law (Acts 5:29). Today’s Workplace Application • Most direct parallel: employee–employer relationship. • Christians should: – Arrive on time, complete tasks, and follow company policies. – Speak respectfully to supervisors, even when disagreeing. – Guard company property and information. – Refrain from gossip and slander of leadership. Heart Posture God Seeks • “Not only while being watched” — integrity when no one sees. • “Sincerity of heart” — honest, undivided service, free from passive aggression. • “Fear of the Lord” — primary accountability is to Christ, not human opinion. • Parallel text: Ephesians 6:5–8: “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ… because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good he does…” When Obedience Must Yield to God’s Higher Call • If told to sin, believers must refuse (Daniel 3; Acts 4:19). • Examples today: falsifying reports, unethical sales, immoral directives. • Saying “no” may cost a job, but loyalty to Christ outranks all earthly ties (Luke 9:23–26). Motivation and Reward • Colossians 3:23–24: “Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being, for the Lord and not for men, because you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as your reward.” • Earthly bosses may overlook effort; Jesus never does. • Eternal inheritance far outweighs temporary frustration. Practical Takeaways for Monday Morning • Review job description—commit to exceed, not just meet, expectations. • Pray briefly before starting work: “Lord, I’m serving You in this task.” • Address conflicts respectfully; avoid bitterness (Hebrews 12:15). • If seeking change, pursue it through righteous channels—updates to résumé and honest interviews, not sabotage or quiet quitting. • Model Christlike diligence so that “in every way they will adorn the teaching of God our Savior” (Titus 2:10). Encouragement for Those in Authority • The companion command: “Masters, supply your slaves with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven” (Colossians 4:1). • Christian supervisors should lead with justice, empathy, and accountability, remembering they answer to the ultimate Master. Obeying earthly masters today means gladly rendering respectful, honest, wholehearted service under human authority, all while recognizing Jesus Christ as the true Boss who sees, rewards, and reigns. |
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