In the New Testament, the apostle Paul addresses the topic of slavery, providing instructions for both slaves and masters. These instructions are found in several of his epistles, reflecting the social and cultural context of the Roman Empire, where slavery was a common institution. Paul's teachings emphasize the importance of Christian conduct and the transformative power of the Gospel in all relationships, including those between slaves and masters.

In Ephesians 6:5-8 , Paul writes: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. Obey them not only to win their favor when their eye is on you, but as slaves of Christ, doing the will of God from your heart. Serve with good will, as to the Lord and not to men, because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good he does, whether he is slave or free."

Similarly, in Colossians 3:22-24 , Paul instructs: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything, not only to please them while they are watching, but with sincerity of heart and fear of the Lord. 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. It is the Lord Christ you are serving."

Paul's instructions to slaves are not an endorsement of the institution of slavery but rather a call for Christian slaves to live out their faith within their circumstances. By serving their masters as they would serve Christ, slaves are encouraged to demonstrate the transformative power of the Gospel, which transcends social and economic boundaries.

Instructions for False Teachers

The New Testament also addresses the issue of false teachers, warning believers to be vigilant against those who distort the truth of the Gospel. The apostle Paul, along with other New Testament writers, provides guidance on identifying and responding to false teachings.

In 1 Timothy 1:3-7 , Paul advises Timothy: "As I urged you when I went to Macedonia, remain in Ephesus to instruct certain men not to teach false doctrines or to devote themselves to myths and endless genealogies, which promote speculation rather than the stewardship of God’s work, which is by faith. The goal of our instruction is the love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and a sincere faith. Some have strayed from these ways and turned aside to empty talk. They want to be teachers of the law, but they do not understand what they are saying or that which they so confidently assert."

Paul's concern is that false teachings can lead believers away from the core truths of the Christian faith, causing division and confusion within the church. In 2 Timothy 4:3-4 , he warns: "For the time will come when men will not tolerate sound doctrine, but with itching ears they will gather around themselves teachers to suit their own desires. So they will turn their ears away from the truth and turn aside to myths."

The apostle Peter also addresses the issue in 2 Peter 2:1-3 : "Now there were also false prophets among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction on themselves. Many will follow in their depravity, and because of them the way of truth will be defamed. In their greed, these false teachers will exploit you with deceptive words. The longstanding verdict against them remains in force, and their destruction does not sleep."

The New Testament's instructions regarding false teachers emphasize the importance of sound doctrine and the need for discernment within the Christian community. Believers are encouraged to hold fast to the truth of the Gospel and to be wary of teachings that deviate from the apostolic message.