Not A Slave, A Witness!

Slaves are to submit to their masters in everything, and to be well-pleasing, not talking back or stealing, but demonstrating utter faithfulness, so that they may adorn the teaching of God our Savior in everything. Titus 2:9-10 csb

God never condoned slavery; it was part of man's fallen world. In fact, nearly one-fourth of the ancient Roman population lived as slaves. For many, the alternatives were slavery or poverty and begging. While some slaves were treated relatively well, they were still considered property. When Christ came into the world and gave His Holy Spirit to believers, He called them to live in a manner worthy of God and to be faithful witnesses for Him. This meant that even those who were slaves were to conduct themselves in a way that honored the Lord. Their goal was not merely to endure difficult circumstances, but to display the transforming power of the gospel and, prayerfully, win their masters to Christ.

Today, we do not have slavery in the same sense, but most of us are employees. We can apply the same principle found in Titus. The Lord Jesus desires that His people be excellent workers, faithful, trustworthy, and respectful in their workplaces. We are called to be a witness to those with whom we spend eight or more hours each day. This should challenge us to view our workplace as a mission field. Not everyone is called to move overseas to serve God, but every Christian is called to serve Him right where they are, in the office, the shop, the classroom, or wherever they work. Let us adorn the gospel we hear week after week by living it out in our daily work, so that in everything the Lord Jesus may be honored and glorified.

Agape,
Frank