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There’s a long-standing myth that the Bible promotes slavery. Some use this argument to discredit Scripture, arguing that such an "ancient" book has no place in modern society. But here’s the truth: this claim couldn’t be further from what the Bible actually teaches.
Let’s break it down with clarity and context.
1. The New Testament Clearly Condemns Slave Trading
The clearest evidence that God does not endorse slavery is found in the New Testament. In 1 Timothy 1:10, the Bible lists slave traders in the same category as murderers, liars, perverts, and adulterers. That’s not the company of someone God approves of.
“...for the sexually immoral, for those practicing homosexuality, for slave traders and liars and perjurers—and for whatever else is contrary to the sound doctrine.” – 1 Timothy 1:10 (NIV)
This verse is not ambiguous. Slave trading is sin, period.
2. God Doesn't Want People Enslaved to Anyone
In 1 Corinthians 7:21–23, the Apostle Paul encourages people, especially believers, to seek freedom if possible:
“Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so... You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of human beings.” – 1 Corinthians 7:21–23 (NIV)
God's desire has always been spiritual and physical freedom for His people. The Bible never celebrates slavery—it acknowledges it as a reality of the time and offers instructions to protect people within that broken system.
3. Old Testament “Slavery” Was Different Than American Slavery
This is where most confusion arises.
In ancient Israel, what was commonly called "slavery" was often indentured servitude—people voluntarily offered their labor to pay off debts or survive economic hardship. This was not racial slavery based on kidnapping, ownership, or abuse. Think of it like someone joining the military or working off student loans: it was often voluntary, time-bound, and legally protected.
There were laws to protect these servants:
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They were not to be abused (Exodus 21:26–27).
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They had to be released after six years (Exodus 21:2).
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If mistreated, they were to be set free.
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There were strict commands against kidnapping and selling people into slavery (Exodus 21:16).
Even theft restitution sometimes involved temporary servitude to repay a victim (Exodus 22:3). But again, the focus was justice and restoration—not oppression.
4. The Bible Was Used to End Slavery
Let’s not forget that the greatest abolitionists in history—both in the U.S. and abroad—were motivated by biblical convictions. From Harriet Tubman to William Wilberforce, believers understood that slavery violated God’s design.
It was the truth of Scripture that declared:
“So God created mankind in His own image…” – Genesis 1:27
“From one man he made all the nations…” – Acts 17:26
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, slave nor free… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28
These verses emphasize the inherent worth and equality of every human being, made in God’s image and redeemed by Christ.
5. God Is the Great Liberator
Let’s not forget: the most famous biblical story of deliverance is the Exodus—when God freed His people from slavery in Egypt. Not only did God hate what Egypt had done, but He used it as a model of redemption and freedom for generations to come.
“I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery.” – Exodus 20:2
That’s not the voice of a God who endorses slavery. That’s the voice of a Liberator.
The Bible doesn’t promote slavery—it exposes it, regulates it for justice in ancient times, and ultimately reveals God’s heart for freedom, dignity, and equality.
Yes, people have twisted Scripture to justify evil—that’s nothing new. But when you actually read the Bible in its full context, the truth becomes clear: God is not the author of slavery—He’s the deliverer from it.
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