Topical Encyclopedia In biblical times, the concept of a "free-man" held significant social and spiritual implications. The term "free-man" is often contrasted with "slave" or "bond-servant," highlighting the distinctions between those who were bound by servitude and those who enjoyed personal liberty. The notion of freedom is deeply embedded in the biblical narrative, both in the physical and spiritual realms.Old Testament Context In the Old Testament, the Hebrew word often translated as "free" is "chophshi," which denotes liberty or freedom from slavery. The Mosaic Law provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of slaves and the conditions under which they could be set free. For instance, in Exodus 21:2 , it is stated, "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." This law underscores the value placed on freedom and the humane treatment of individuals within the covenant community. The Year of Jubilee, described in Leviticus 25, further emphasizes the importance of freedom. Every fiftieth year, liberty was proclaimed throughout the land, and individuals who had sold themselves into servitude were to be released. This practice served as a reminder of God's deliverance and the inherent dignity of every person. New Testament Context In the New Testament, the Greek word "eleutheros" is used to describe a free-man. The Apostle Paul addresses the concept of freedom extensively, particularly in relation to spiritual freedom through Christ. In 1 Corinthians 7:22 , Paul writes, "For he who was called in the Lord while a slave is the Lord’s freedman. Likewise, he who was called while free is Christ’s slave." Here, Paul highlights the paradoxical nature of Christian freedom, where true liberty is found in servitude to Christ. The early Christian community was marked by a radical redefinition of social status. Galatians 3:28 declares, "There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus." This verse underscores the spiritual equality and unity of all believers, regardless of their earthly status. Spiritual Implications The concept of a free-man in the Bible extends beyond physical freedom to encompass spiritual liberation. Jesus Christ is portrayed as the ultimate liberator, setting humanity free from the bondage of sin and death. In John 8:36 , Jesus proclaims, "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed." This freedom is not merely a release from physical chains but a profound transformation of the heart and soul. The Apostle Paul further elaborates on this spiritual freedom in Romans 6:18 , stating, "You have been set free from sin and have become slaves to righteousness." This freedom from sin enables believers to live in accordance with God's will, empowered by the Holy Spirit. Social and Ethical Considerations The biblical understanding of a free-man carries significant social and ethical implications. The call to treat others with dignity and respect, regardless of their social status, is a recurring theme. The early church's practice of welcoming both slaves and free-men as equals in Christ challenged the prevailing social norms and laid the groundwork for a community marked by love and mutual respect. In summary, the concept of a free-man in the Bible encompasses both physical and spiritual dimensions. It reflects God's desire for His people to experience true freedom, rooted in a relationship with Him and expressed through love and service to others. Greek 1658. eleutheros -- free, ie not a slave or not under restraint ... word Definition free, ie not a slave or not under restraint NASB Word Usage exempt (1), free (12), free man (2), free men (3), free woman (4), freeman (1). ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1658.htm - 7k 558. apeleutheros -- one freed away, ie a freedman Strong's Hebrew 2670. chophshi -- free... Definition: free. Word Origin from chaphash Definition free NASB Word Usage forsaken (1), free (14), free man (2). free, liberty. From ... /hebrew/2670.htm - 6k Library Concerning his Father, a Freeman of Thagaste, the Assister of his ... Letter F He Accuses Abaelard for Preferring his Own Opinions and Even ... Whether one Ought to be Withdrawn from Entering Religion through ... How a Citizen Became a Soldier. "Free. " The Liberation of Free Persons Condemned to Labor in the Women's ... National Sorrows and National Lessons 1 Cor. vii. 1, 2 Colossians iii. 7-May Thesaurus Freeman (9 Occurrences)... In 1 Corinthians 7:22 the word is apeleutheros, "a freeman," one who was born a ... In Revelation 6:15 the word is simply eleutheros, "a freeman" as opposed to a ... /f/freeman.htm - 10k Free-man (2 Occurrences) Freedman (1 Occurrence) Bondman (108 Occurrences) Liberal (11 Occurrences) Freedom (45 Occurrences) Freemen (17 Occurrences) Bondservant (34 Occurrences) Greek (19 Occurrences) Jew (34 Occurrences) Resources What is libertarian free will? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is compatibilism? | GotQuestions.org What is Molinism and is it biblical? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Free-man (2 Occurrences)1 Corinthians 7:22 Revelation 6:15 Subtopics Related Terms Free-offerings (2 Occurrences) |
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