<< Previous | 8 of 16 | Next >>

Regular Columns

Slavery in the Bible

Does the Bible permit or, even worse, encourage slavery? Reading Bible passages out of context might suggest it does. Critics of Christianity could read Titus 2:9 or 1 Peter 2:18 and ask one to justify commands for slaves to obey their masters.

Defending our faith Chris Sinkinson
Figure Image
photo: iStock

Out of context, the Old Testament is disturbing (Leviticus 25:44-46) and makes provision for slavery. Does this entail that God endorses the practice of slavery? Out-of-context such quotations can put Christians on the back foot. Are we defending an immoral Bible?