The Question:
“Why does it seem like the Bible condones slavery? For example Paul told slaves to returns to their masters when they had run away. Was it more of a cultural thing?”
The Answer:
Thanks for the question. I am glad you say that it seems like the Bible condones slavery. In answering a question like this it is always important to remember that the Bible should be read as a book which shows us the way of salvation in Jesus Christ.That being said doesn’t mean that it doesn’t indirectly address various issues of our society or culture.
However, just because something is mentioned in what appears to be a neutral way, doesn’t mean that the Bible condones it. For instance, remember when Jesus was asked if they should pay taxes to Caesar? Jesus said: “Give unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s and the to God the things that are God’s.” Does that mean that Jesus legitimized everything that Caesar did? Of course not! Therefore the mentioning of slavery without condemning it does not mean that Paul was condoning the practice of slavery. In fact, Paul actually speaks in the book of Philemon (where the reference in the questions seems to originate) that the fact that Onesimus became a believer means that Philemon should receive him as a brother! We read in Philemon 1:15-16: “For perhaps he departed for a while for this purpose, that you might receive him forever, 16 no longer as a slave but more than a slave—a beloved brother, especially to me but how much more to you, both in the flesh and in the Lord.”
Another factor to acknowledge is that slavery in the 1st century was not like slavery of the 18th century. Realize that social, economic, and legal positions of slaves have differed vastly in different systems of slavery in different times and places. Some slaves, although not all, were treated as sons & heirs by their masters. When Paul encourages slaves to be obedient to their masters he was instructing them about what respecting those in authority would look like in that context. Besides, are not some people slaves to their masters (employers) today? Some people are such workaholics that in reality they are slaves – albeit better paid. Instead of being literally in physical bondage they are held in bondage by money, or other perks. They provide cell phones so they can be tethered to their work all the time!
Therefore whatever situation we find ourselves, whether slaves or free, let us live for the Lord!
A thought provoking question indeed. Respectfully, I think that you did a very poor job answering this question. It sound like you want a certain answer, so you are looking for support for your position, instead of looking at the support to inform your position. Please see my below bullet points that I find particularly troubling:
1. The fact that you would actually try to justify the slavery that we find in the Bible as not as bad as the slavery in the 18th century shows not only your ignorance of the subject, but also a flawed logical and spiritual approach. “Not as bad as…” spiritual approaches are dangerous, as I am sure you are well aware.
2. Comparing slavery with the pressures of our current jobs is absolutely unforgivable. It shocks me that you actually wrote this, proof read it, and posted it is very troubling. Comparing slavery and being tied to our cell phones is not only appalling, but a complete and utter travesty. I genuinely hope that you are not serious.
3. This is my last point for the day, and really, should not have to be said, but I cannot refrain. Your foundational argument here is that the various authors referenced do not condone slavery. This is pathetic. Out of all of the things that the apostles call out and condemn in the churches, to overlook this HUGE item would likely imply that they condoned slavery, not that they hated it and just didn’t have the time or ability to call it out. This goes back to my introduction, it seems that you have chosen what you want the Bible to say on this topic, and have just tried to find something to support that. Lets not forget that in our legal systems, in legal systems throughout the world and in the Bible, we find that inaction is just as damnable as action, and therefore a failure to call something out as evil is likely more indicative of the position that was held at the time, than you seem to be willing to admit to.
All of this being said, I typically enjoy these posts and articles and would encourage you to continue to write and post. The work being done here is really amazing, I just cannot sit silent when I read a response like this.