Topical Bible: Servants: Duties of, to Masters: To be Submissive Even to the Froward

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Topical Encyclopedia

In the biblical context, the relationship between servants and masters is addressed with specific instructions regarding the conduct expected of servants. The Scriptures provide guidance on how servants are to behave, even when faced with difficult or unjust masters. This entry explores the duties of servants to be submissive, including to those who are froward or harsh.

Biblical Foundation

The New Testament provides clear directives for servants in their relationship with their masters. In 1 Peter 2:18 , it is written: "Servants, submit yourselves to your masters with all respect, not only to those who are good and gentle, but even to those who are unreasonable." This passage emphasizes the importance of submission and respect, regardless of the master's disposition.

Submission as a Christian Duty

The call for submission is rooted in the broader Christian ethic of humility and service. Servants are encouraged to exhibit a Christ-like attitude, reflecting the humility and obedience of Jesus Himself. In Philippians 2:5-7 , believers are reminded: "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, existing in the form of God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, but emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in human likeness."

Endurance Under Unjust Treatment

The instruction to be submissive even to the froward is not an endorsement of injustice but rather a call to endure suffering for the sake of righteousness. 1 Peter 2:19-20 states: "For if anyone endures the pain of unjust suffering because he is conscious of God, this is to be commended. But how is it to your credit if you are beaten for doing wrong and you endure it? But if you suffer for doing good and you endure it, this is commendable before God."

The Example of Christ

The ultimate example for servants is found in Jesus Christ, who suffered unjustly yet did not retaliate. 1 Peter 2:21-23 highlights this: "For to this you were called, because Christ also suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in His footsteps: 'He committed no sin, and no deceit was found in His mouth.' When they heaped abuse on Him, He did not retaliate; when He suffered, He made no threats, but entrusted Himself to Him who judges justly."

Practical Implications

The biblical call for servants to be submissive even to harsh masters has practical implications for Christian conduct. It encourages believers to maintain integrity and faithfulness in their duties, trusting in God's justice and ultimate authority. This teaching also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of grace and the witness of a life lived in submission to God's will.

Conclusion

The duty of servants to be submissive to their masters, even those who are froward, is a profound expression of Christian faith and obedience. It reflects a commitment to living out the principles of humility, endurance, and trust in God's righteous judgment, as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 16:6,9
But Abram said to Sarai, Behold, your maid is in your hand; do to her as it pleases you. And when Sarai dealt hardly with her, she fled from her face.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

1 Peter 2:18
Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the fraudulent.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

The Fifth Commandment
... I am next to speak of the duties of the ... Thus should masters carry themselves prudently
and piously, that they may gain honour from their servants, and may ...
/.../watson/the ten commandments/2 5 the fifth commandment.htm

The Preface to the Commandments
... it shows us what sins to avoid, what duties to pursue. ... were under great tyranny;
they had cruel task-masters set over ... and men are said to be the servants of sin ...
//christianbookshelf.org/watson/the ten commandments/1 3 the preface to the.htm