COLOSSIANS 4:1

“Masters, grant your slaves justice and fairness, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.”

The whole topic of slavery, which Paul has been addressing in the past few verses (3:23-25), can be confusing for us in the 21^st century. Slavery has been abolished in the U.S. since December 18, 1865. There are still areas of the world, however, where slavery is practiced, whether it is legal or not. Slavery does just the opposite of what this verse is commanding – granting justice and fairness.

Paul knew he could not change the slave culture that was all around him by simply penning a letter to a church in Colossae. But he could give God’s Word to Christian masters, like Philemon, who lived there. He could point them to the justice and fairness of God in their own lives. He even says, “you also have a Master in heaven.” The Greek word for “Master” is kurios, which is often translated “Lord,” referring to God or Jesus. I believe these masters of slaves in the Colossian church got the message.

APPLICATION

In 1 Corinthians 7:21 Paul tells the Christian slaves, “Were you called while a slave? Do not worry about it; but if you are able also to become free, rather do that.” In other words, don’t rebel and lash out at your masters, but do all you can to be set free. Often slaves could earn money enough to buy themselves out of slavery. By doing this, they would have to work extra hard, which in turn would please their masters.

Paul also addresses this issue in 1 Timothy 6:1-2, where he says, “1 All who are under the yoke as slaves are to regard their own masters as worthy of all honor so that the name of God and our doctrine will not be spoken against. 2 Those who have believers as their masters must not be disrespectful to them because they are brothers or sisters, but must serve them all the more, because those who partake of the benefit are believers and beloved. Teach and preach these principles.” This was obviously a contentious topic in the early church that was living in this slave culture.

So, how can we learn from this verse? Treat everyone with justice and fairness. To show justice means to do what is right in God’s eyes, not yours. And to show fairness means to treat everyone as equal. You are above no one. I believe these two truths are important in our relationships with others, whether they are believers or not. Do this to please your “Master in heaven.”

Father, You truly are my Master. I want to do all things according to Your justice and fairness.