1Tim 6:1-2

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The slaves (1Tim 6:1-2)

Slaves had equal status with others in the church (Gal 3:28), but not in the households where they worked. Paul helped to raise the status of slaves, and eventually to bring an end to slavery, by encouraging Christian slaves to work with responsibility and dignity. They were not to think of themselves as mere tools of their masters. Paul assures them that if they act in a way that is fitting for those who are God’s children, they will also bring honour to the name of God (1Tim 6:1).

Any who work for Christian masters should work all the better. In so doing they will bring added benefit to those who are their fellow believers in Christ (1Tim 6:2).