Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context Bondservice, often referred to as servitude or slavery, is a condition in which an individual is bound to serve another person. In the biblical context, bondservice is a multifaceted institution that appears throughout the Old and New Testaments. It is important to understand bondservice within the cultural, historical, and theological framework of the Bible. Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, bondservice is primarily addressed in the Mosaic Law. The Hebrew term often translated as "slave" or "servant" is ebed, which can denote a range of servitude from voluntary service to involuntary slavery. The Law provided specific regulations to protect the rights and welfare of bondservants. For instance, Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which a Hebrew servant could be set free after six years of service: "If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years, but in the seventh year he shall go free, without paying anything" . The Law also made provisions for the humane treatment of bondservants, emphasizing justice and compassion. Leviticus 25:39-43 instructs the Israelites not to treat their fellow countrymen harshly: "If your brother among you becomes destitute and sells himself to you, you must not force him into slave labor. Let him stay with you as a hired worker or temporary resident; he is to work for you until the Year of Jubilee" . New Testament Context In the New Testament, bondservice is addressed within the context of the Roman Empire, where slavery was a widespread institution. The Greek term doulos is commonly used, which can mean servant or slave. The New Testament does not explicitly call for the abolition of slavery but rather provides guidance on how Christians should conduct themselves within the existing social structures. The Apostle Paul, in his epistles, addresses both slaves and masters, urging them to act in a manner that reflects their faith in Christ. In Ephesians 6:5-9, Paul instructs bondservants to obey their earthly masters with respect and sincerity, as they would obey Christ: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ" . Similarly, masters are reminded to treat their slaves with fairness and without threats, recognizing that they too have a Master in heaven. Theological Implications The concept of bondservice in the Bible also carries a spiritual dimension. Believers are often described as "servants" or "slaves" of Christ, highlighting a voluntary and devoted submission to the Lord. Romans 6:22 speaks of this transformation: "But now that you have been set free from sin and have become slaves to God, the fruit you reap leads to holiness, and the outcome is eternal life" . This spiritual bondservice is characterized by freedom from sin and a commitment to righteousness. It reflects the believer's new identity in Christ and the call to live a life of service to God and others. Cultural and Historical Considerations Understanding bondservice in the Bible requires an awareness of the cultural and historical context of the ancient Near East and the Greco-Roman world. Slavery in biblical times was not based on race but was often a result of war, debt, or poverty. The biblical regulations sought to mitigate the harshness of slavery and promote justice and mercy. While the Bible acknowledges the existence of bondservice, it also lays the groundwork for the principles of equality and dignity that would eventually lead to the questioning and abolition of slavery in many societies. The emphasis on love, justice, and the inherent worth of every individual as created in the image of God provides a foundation for understanding the biblical perspective on bondservice. Library The Secret Walk with God (I. ). The Christian's Peace and the Christian's Consistency Secret Study of the Holy Scriptures. Thesaurus Bondservice (1 Occurrence)... Multi-Version Concordance Bondservice (1 Occurrence). 1 Kings 9:21 Their children that were left after them in the land, whom the ... /b/bondservice.htm - 6k Bond-servants (12 Occurrences) Impose (12 Occurrences) Bond-service (1 Occurrence) Tribute (67 Occurrences) Resources Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible ThesuarusConcordance Bondservice (1 Occurrence)1 Kings 9:21 Subtopics Related Terms |
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