Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the relationship between masters and servants is addressed with a focus on justice, fairness, and mutual respect. The Scriptures provide clear guidance on the responsibilities of masters toward their servants, emphasizing the importance of not defrauding or mistreating them.Biblical Mandate for Fair Treatment The Bible underscores the principle that masters should treat their servants with fairness and integrity. In Colossians 4:1, the Apostle Paul instructs, "Masters, supply your servants with what is right and fair, since you know that you also have a Master in heaven." This verse highlights the accountability of earthly masters to their heavenly Master, urging them to act justly and equitably. Prohibition Against Defrauding The prohibition against defrauding servants is rooted in the broader biblical ethic of honesty and justice. Leviticus 19:13 states, "You must not defraud your neighbor or rob him. The wages due a hired hand must not remain with you until morning." Although this verse specifically addresses hired workers, the principle extends to all forms of servitude, emphasizing the importance of timely and fair compensation. New Testament Reinforcement The New Testament reinforces the call for masters to act justly. In Ephesians 6:9, Paul advises, "And masters, do the same for them. Give up your use of threats, because you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him." This passage calls for a cessation of harsh treatment and threats, reminding masters of their own subjection to God's impartial judgment. The Example of Christ The ultimate example for masters is found in the character of Christ, who exemplified servant leadership. Jesus taught His followers to lead by serving others, as seen in Mark 10:42-45: "But Jesus called them aside and said, 'You know that those regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their superiors exercise authority over them. But it shall not be this way among you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.'" Old Testament Wisdom The wisdom literature of the Old Testament also provides insight into the treatment of servants. Proverbs 22:16 warns, "Oppressing the poor to enrich oneself, or giving gifts to the rich, will surely lead to poverty." This proverb cautions against exploiting those in a vulnerable position, including servants, for personal gain. Conclusion The biblical teaching on the duty of masters toward their servants is clear: they are to act with justice, fairness, and integrity, reflecting the character of God in their dealings. By adhering to these principles, masters honor God and uphold the dignity of those who serve them. Torrey's Topical Textbook Genesis 31:7And your father has deceived me, and changed my wages ten times; but God suffered him not to hurt me. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library 1 Cor. vii. 1, 2 The Domestic Relation. Thou Shalt Honor Thy Father and Thy Mother. The Great Awakening. Ephesians v. 22-24 Christian Behavior The Fifth Book Exposition of the Moral Law. English Version of the Second Helvetic Confession, AD 1566. Period I: the Imperial State Church of the Undivided Empire, or ... Resources What does it mean that you cannot serve two masters in Matthew 6:24? | GotQuestions.orgWhat are spirit guides? Should Christians consult spirit guides? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about government? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Masters: Authority of, Established Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: Not to Defraud Them Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: Not to Keep Back Their Wages Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: Not to Rule Over Them With Rigour Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Act Justly Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Deal With Them in the Fear of God Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Esteem Them Highly, If Saints Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Forbear Threatening Them Masters: Duty of, Toward Servants: To Take Care of Them in Sickness Masters: should Receive Faithful Advice from Servants Masters: should Select Faithful Servants Masters: Should, With Their Households: Fear God Masters: Should, With Their Households: Observe the Sabbath Masters: Should, With Their Households: Put Away Idols Masters: Should, With Their Households: Serve God Masters: Should, With Their Households: Worship God Related Terms Mephib'osheth (13 Occurrences) War-carriages (76 Occurrences) |
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