Cultural interpretation and adaptation are essential in understanding Scripture. This passage begs an explanation which does not justify slavery. Was Paul somewhat less than inspired, being a child of his age? Should he not have instructed slaves to rise up in non-violent civil disobedience? Why does Paul not speak out on their behalf? We in North America are particularly sensitive to this because of our history of racial oppression and strife.

Actually, the apostle does address the subject more specifically in the book of Philemon where he essentially revolutionizes the institution of slavery, particularly when it involves a Christian master and a Christian slave. Even in this letter a few verses later, he does address the behavior of slave masters.

However, slavery was an embedded political and economic institution, and was not based specifically on race. There were probably considerably more slaves who came to Christ in Ephesus than slave-masters, so he addresses his audience. Paul is not endorsing slavery, but regulating behavior within slavery. In fact, his instructions to slaves renders them really no different than subordinates in any social or employment situations. There will always be some sort of hierarchy of authority and responsibility, whether in slavery, employment, society or family. If these instructions here apply to the most difficult of situations, that of being a slave, then they would apply to all lesser difficult situations.

The primary instruction is “to obey,” the same word for children “to obey” their parents. That means to place oneself under the authority of another. In the case of slaves, notice that Paul says this is a relationship “according to the flesh.” It has no spiritual significance – it is purely a human invention. But within that human situation, there is hierarchy. Subordinates should set as their goal to be the best subordinate possible; to do so “with fear and trembling, in the sincerity of your heart.” This means with an open face, not conniving, resisting or manipulating. They should act in the best interest of their employer or master. The key is to recognize that their real master is the Lord Jesus Christ. As one preacher put it to a Christian in the workplace, “You are on assignment from Christ as his ambassador, secretly disguised as a factory worker.” With this in view, we can serve God whole heartedly no matter how demanding our earthly master, employer,  or parent is.

Lord, I accept my position with joy, for it is You that I serve in all situations.