Topical Bible: Servants: The Property of Masters Increased by Faithful

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In biblical times, the relationship between masters and servants was a significant aspect of societal structure. Servants, often referred to as bondservants or slaves, were considered the property of their masters. However, the Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the importance of faithful service and the resulting blessings that can come from such dedication.

Old Testament Context

In the Old Testament, servitude was a common practice, and the Law of Moses provided specific regulations regarding the treatment of servants. For instance, Exodus 21:2-6 outlines the conditions under which a Hebrew servant might serve and be released. The faithful service of a servant could lead to increased prosperity for the master. A notable example is found in the account of Joseph, who, despite being sold into slavery by his brothers, served Potiphar faithfully. Genesis 39:5 states, "From the time that he put him in charge of his household and all that he owned, the LORD blessed the household of the Egyptian because of Joseph. The blessing of the LORD was on everything he owned, both in his house and in his field."

New Testament Teachings

The New Testament continues to address the relationship between masters and servants, emphasizing the spiritual dimensions of service. In Ephesians 6:5-8 , Paul instructs, "Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear and sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ. 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." This passage highlights the principle that faithful service is ultimately rendered unto the Lord, and it is He who rewards such diligence.

Parables and Teachings of Jesus

Jesus often used parables to illustrate the principles of faithful service and stewardship. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus describes a master who entrusts his property to his servants before going on a journey. The servants who faithfully invest and increase their master's property are commended and rewarded. This parable underscores the idea that faithful service leads to increased responsibility and blessing.

The Role of Faithful Service

Faithful service is portrayed as a means through which God's blessings are manifested. The diligent and honest work of a servant can lead to the prosperity of the master, as seen in the biblical narratives. Proverbs 27:18 states, "He who tends a fig tree will eat its fruit, and he who looks after his master will be honored." This proverb reflects the reciprocal nature of faithful service and the honor that comes from fulfilling one's duties with integrity.

Spiritual Implications

From a spiritual perspective, the faithful service of a servant is a reflection of one's relationship with God. Colossians 3:23-24 encourages believers, "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." This teaching elevates the role of a servant, emphasizing that their ultimate service is to God, who sees and rewards their faithfulness.

In summary, the Bible presents a nuanced view of servitude, where faithful service is not only a duty but also a means of receiving God's blessings. Through diligent and sincere service, both the servant and the master can experience the increase and favor that come from the Lord.

Torrey's Topical Textbook

Genesis 30:29,30
And he said to him, You know how I have served you, and how your cattle was with me.
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Library

Europeans in India.
... part during the temporary absence of their masters from India ... time very careful to
guard the property of their ... As a rule natives, both servants and others, are ...
/.../chapter xxx europeans in india.htm

How the Promise of an Hundredfold in this Life is Made to those ...
... and a quarrelsome division destroys the property of brothers. ... houses and lands and
most faithful servants, who receive you as their masters, and welcome ...
/.../cassian/the conferences of john cassian/chapter xxvi how the promise.htm

Against "The Roaring Lions"
... that the Donatists, even victorious, even sole masters of the ... In the next place,
the distribution of property in those ... "We would not that the servants of God ...
/.../christianbookshelf.org/bertrand/saint augustin/iv against the roaring lions.htm

False Brethren and False Principles in the Church: Spirit and ...
... of self-renunciation, divested himself of all his property; and also ... "Let as many
servants as are ... yoke," says the apostle, "count their own masters worthy of ...
/.../killen/the ancient church/chapter iii false brethren and.htm

Patrick, the Apostle of the Irish.
... Patrick took the part of the servants who had suffered hard usage from their masters. ...
to be bought by the administrators of the Church property in Gaul ...
/.../neander/light in the dark places/patrick the apostle of the.htm

Covenant Duties.
... should the respective duties of masters and servants ... acting in the capacity of servants,
voluntarily devoted ... of life and character, and property, brings under ...
/.../cunningham/the ordinance of covenanting/chapter iv covenant duties.htm

Treatise viii. On Works and Alms.
... their Father, and in teaching your children to love their property more than ... He has
given us precepts; what His servants ought to do He ... London, Masters, 1883.]. ...
/.../cyprian/the treatises of cyprian/treatise viii on works and.htm

The Marriage of Cana
... remarking what a sad inference one of our masters of Israel ... But as for the servants
of Jesus Christ, it is ... after his good pleasure; it is his property to take ...
/.../whitefield/selected sermons of george whitefield/the marriage of cana.htm

part viii.
... the coming of Antichrist, and beholding their property plundered by ... But the faithful
servants of our Saviour, and the ... We adjure also the masters of vessels, to ...
/.../athanasius/select works and letters or athanasius/part viii.htm

Directions to Sinners.
... by setting her to praise them as the servants of God ... When her masters saw that the
hope of their gains was ... children, as if it was all his own lawful property. ...
/.../finney/lectures on revivals of religion/lecture xviii directions to sinners.htm