Daily Devotions
Ephesians
"With goodwill doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men."
Text: Ephesians 6:7
STILL ON THE SUBJECT OF “SERVICE”
Does it seem amazing that Paul would devote so much time and space to discuss the subject of bondslaves serving their masters? What were some of the possible reasons why he did that?
1. Slaves made up a large portion of society
Rome had made “bondslaves”. Slaves were utilized by Rome in many ways. They were assigned all kinds of duties in homes. In fact, it would be doubtful if wealthy homes could be maintained without slave labour! When Paul wrote, addressing Christian slaves, he was not addressing a small minority at all.
2. For the protection of the lives of the slaves
Paul knew that many slaves suffered terribly under cruel masters. But to be fair, some slaves caused their own punishments. Many hated their lot in life, as bondslaves. Some would attempt to run away. Others found ways and means to get around having to “slave away” at their duties. But if masters found out that their slaves were not working as they should, swift and terrible punishments would be meted out. Thus, for the sake of the safety of the slaves, he decided that he would help them see their lot in life, and make the necessary adjustments. If they were to serve well, then they might escape cruel or brutal punishment.
3. For the sake of bearing a good testimony of faith in Christ
What a privilege it is for anyone to believe in the Lord Jesus Christ! How does faith in the Lord Jesus Christ affect the way a person serves? In Paul’s understanding, when a person believes in the Lord, it affects everything- including the way he serves as a bondslave!
THE CHRISTIAN WAY OF SERVING
How should the bondslave see his work? Paul suggests that he bears in mind the following thoughts:-
1. “With goodwill”
This word “goodwill” (“eunoias”) literally means, “possessing a good mental disposition”. The bondslave must not serve with a resentful mindset!
2. “As to the Lord”
This phrase is self-explanatory. Paul was a classic case of one who serves well as a bondslave. He bore in mind most consciously the fact that his service was “as to the Lord”.
3. “And not to men”
This phrase functions to strengthen the above clause!