https://odb.org/2024/03/19/who-is-your-master
In the Bible, whether in the Old or New Testament but perhaps more so in the latter, when some versions use the expression ‘servant’, the meaning is usually slaves. In those times, slavery was still common. During ancient times, people ended up as slaves as victorious armies take war captives as their bounty. Rather than a massacre, they have cheap labour, and this bounty could also serve as a strong motivation for a soldier to fight for an army. Thus, a soldier will be willing to put his life on the line to gain a helper for their homes plus other bounty. The Israelites ended up as slaves in Egypt because they were foreigners living in a land their forefathers settled in to escape famine in Canaan.
While slavery in the original sense as chattels (can be bought and sold) no longer exists in the modern world, sometimes we are somewhat like slaves in the workforce. For various reasons, we may not have the ability not to work as and when we like. Our modern-day commitments are long-term, while most of us have savings that will not last more than a couple of months. In a declining economy, when everyone is struggling, jobs are hard to come by.
Thus, Paul’s teaching in Colossians 3:22 and 4:1 are significant. Although he could not change the social phenomenon of slavery, he asked that both slaves and masters treat each other well and with respect and fairness. A worker is always worthy of his wages, and we should reward hard work, faithfulness, and dedication appropriately.
As workers, we must give our best to our employers, and as bosses, we must not abuse or take advantage of our subordinates’ life situations. We reward as much as we could within the means of our respective organisations and always remember that everyone has extra mouths to feed at home, whether it is the wife and kids or ageing parents. As believers, this is the least we can do to honour God as Jesus Christ is our Master and Lord, and we always want to do His will in all situations and circumstances. It would be tragically wrong if we are abusive, exploitative, and manipulative bosses who profess the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. That will bring shame and dishonour to Christ!
Ronnie's Thoughts 