What does "slaves to righteousness" mean in the context of Christian living? Setting the Scene “Just as you offered yourselves as slaves to impurity and to ever-increasing lawlessness, so now offer yourselves as slaves to righteousness leading to holiness.” (Romans 6:19) Paul is drawing a sharp contrast between two eras of every believer’s life—before Christ and after Christ. The question is not whether we will serve a master, but which master we will serve. Understanding the Word “Slave” in Romans 6:19 • The Greek word doulos means bond-servant—someone wholly owned by a master. • Paul applies the term intentionally; our allegiance is absolute, not partial. • Far from diminishing human dignity, enslavement to the righteous rule of God restores true freedom (John 8:36). From One Master to Another • Before salvation: – Master = sin. – Outcome = “ever-increasing lawlessness” (more bondage, shame, death). • After salvation: – Master = righteousness. – Outcome = “holiness” (set-apart living that reflects God’s character). • The change of masters happens at conversion (Romans 6:6-7). • We continually “present” our bodies, thoughts, and desires to our new Master (Romans 12:1). Practical Outworking of Being a Slave to Righteousness 1. Whole-Person Obedience • Mind: Renew your thinking with Scripture (Ephesians 4:23). • Heart: Love what God loves, hate what He hates (Psalm 97:10). • Body: Use members as “instruments of righteousness” (Romans 6:13). 2. Daily Dependence on the Spirit • The Spirit empowers what the flesh cannot (Galatians 5:16-17). • Slavery to righteousness is relational, not mechanical. 3. Consistent Growth • Holiness is progressive: today’s obedience readies us for tomorrow’s. • “The path of the righteous is like the first light of dawn” (Proverbs 4:18). 4. Joyful Identity • Former chains replaced by glad submission (Psalm 100:2). • True purpose discovered in serving God’s will (Ephesians 2:10). Connected Passages • John 8:34-36 – Christ delivers from slavery to sin. • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – You are not your own; you were bought at a price. • Titus 2:11-14 – Grace trains us to live self-controlled, upright, godly lives. • 1 Peter 2:16 – Live as free people, yet as God’s slaves. Encouragement for Daily Life • Remember whose you are: redeemed, owned, and cherished by the Lord. • Replace old habits intentionally—every surrender to righteousness strengthens holy reflexes. • Rest in the promise: “He who began a good work in you will perfect it” (Philippians 1:6). |
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