Right Attitude Towards Masters. Titus 2:9-10.
Bondservants are to be submissive to their own masters in everything; they are to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, Not pilfering, but showing all good faith, so that in everything they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour.
Dear Pilgrims and Sojourners,
The conclusion to the instructions to the different groups in the church in the church deals with bondservants. As we noted elsewhere, slavery was very common in Paul’s time. Anywhere between a third and two-thirds of the Roman Empire populace were or had been slaves. Slavery was the main source of labor and generally accepted as the norm. The issue under discussion here is not whether slavery is right or wrong, but how a Christian ought to carry himself within the prevailing status quo.
Humility (v. 9). Christian bondservants ought to distinguish themselves with submission. This is a willingness to cede priority to another. They should strive to make their masters happy and avoid arguments. Sometimes people fight battles they cannot win but which still leave them bruised. Submission may be a more effective way of dealing with some oppressive situations.
Honesty (v. 10a). Injustice and unfairness on one do not justify one’s acting unfairly or dishonestly, so even if the master is unkind and inconsiderate, the Christian slave must still do the best at work. Our honesty and diligence must never depend on the boss or employer in our workplace but our commitment to work.
Honour (v. 10b). The ultimate aim of the believer’s conduct should be to glorify God. But an interesting by-product of a Christian’s right living is that it will “adorn” the preaching of the gospel. Our good deeds and faithfulness make the faith attractive to outsiders. It is time to ask ourselves, Does my life attract others to my Saviour?
Your Loving Pastor Chris.