Does Scripture Support Slavery?

Slavery is undoubtedly one of humanity’s ugliest inventions, yet it is found within the pages of Scripture in both the Old and New Testaments.  Many people, from plantation owners to secular humanists to President Barack Obama, have alleged that the Bible explicitly supports this dehumanizing institution.  How should Christians respond to such an accusation?

This week Kevin looks at data both inside and outside the Bible to cast some light on the issue.  What is the connection between slavery and finances, and what does this mean for modern-day America?  When the Bible refers to slavery, does it mean the same sort of thing that occurred in America before the civil war?  Does the New Testament affirm that slavery is OK?

Kevin examines specific laws God gave to Israel concerning slavery and compares them with surrounding nations of the time, revealing God’s intention to make this ubiquitous practice far more humane.  Then he examines references to slavery in the New Testament, including Paul’s personal appeal to a slave owner in his letter to Philemon.  Throughout this episode it is made clear that God is not a cause of slavery; He is the one who sets captives free.

“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”  —Galatians 3:28

This episode first aired on July 19th, 2015.