The term "masters of the slave girl" refers to individuals who held ownership and control over female slaves in biblical times. This concept is illustrated in the New Testament, particularly in the account of the Apostle Paul and his companions in Philippi, as recorded in the Book of Acts.

Biblical Context

In Acts 16:16-19 , we encounter a narrative involving a slave girl possessed by a spirit of divination. This girl brought significant profit to her masters through fortune-telling. The passage states:

"Once, as we were going to the place of prayer, we were met by a slave girl with a spirit of divination, who earned a large income for her masters by fortune-telling. She followed Paul and the rest of us, shouting, 'These men are servants of the Most High God, who are proclaiming to you the way of salvation.' She continued this for many days. Eventually, Paul grew so troubled that he turned and said to the spirit, 'I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her!' And it came out at that very moment. When her masters saw that their hope of making money was gone, they seized Paul and Silas and dragged them into the marketplace to face the authorities."

Cultural and Historical Background

In the Greco-Roman world, slavery was a common institution, and slaves were considered property under the law. Female slaves, in particular, could be exploited for various purposes, including domestic work, labor, and, as in this case, financial gain through their abilities or talents. The slave girl's ability to predict the future was attributed to a spirit of divination, which her masters exploited for economic benefit.

The reaction of the masters upon losing their source of income highlights the economic motivations often underlying the institution of slavery. Their immediate response was to retaliate against Paul and Silas, demonstrating the societal power dynamics and the potential for conflict when economic interests were threatened.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, the account underscores the transformative power of the Gospel and the authority of Jesus Christ over spiritual forces. Paul's command to the spirit in the name of Jesus resulted in the immediate liberation of the girl from spiritual bondage. This act of deliverance not only freed her from the spirit but also disrupted the economic exploitation by her masters.

The narrative also reflects the early Christian mission's challenge to societal norms and injustices. By prioritizing the spiritual and physical well-being of the individual over economic gain, the early Christians modeled a countercultural ethic that valued human dignity and freedom.

Moral and Ethical Considerations

The account of the slave girl and her masters invites reflection on the moral and ethical dimensions of slavery and exploitation. It challenges readers to consider the inherent value of every human being, created in the image of God, and the call to oppose systems and practices that dehumanize or exploit individuals for profit.

In contemporary discussions, this passage serves as a reminder of the Christian responsibility to advocate for justice and to stand against modern forms of slavery and exploitation. The liberation of the slave girl is a powerful testament to the Gospel's capacity to bring freedom and transformation to individuals and societies.