In His Name Devotionals
FAITHFUL SERVICE
In His Name Devotionals
FAITHFUL SERVICE
“Paul and Timothy, bond-servants of Christ Jesus...”(Philippians 1:1)
The metaphor of Christians as slaves to Christ is common in Paul’s writings. It is one his readers would have really understood because of the prevalence of slavery in the Roman Empire.
Peter, James, John, and Jude used the same metaphor of their own ministries, as did Jesus, “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life a ransom for many” (Mark 10:45). In Philippians 2:7 Paul refers to Christ as a bond-servant, Who set aside the glory He was due and humbled Himself to the point of death.
The Greek word translated “bond-servant” in Philippians 1:1 was commonly used of those who, out of devotion to their masters, chose to remain as slaves because they served out of love, not compulsion.
That is a beautiful picture of the believer. As a child of God you are God’s “bond-servants” (Revelation 1:1), “having been freed from sin and enslaved to God” (Romans 6:22).
While slavery brings to mind deprivation and inhumane treatment of one’s fellowman, slaves in the Roman Empire usually were treated with dignity and respect. Although most had no personal possessions, their masters supplied everything they needed for life and death. Additionally, many were entrusted with significant responsibilities in their master’s home.
A disobedient or self-willed slave was of no use to his master, but faithful slaves who set aside their personal interests to accomplish their master’s will were valued highly.
Jesus said, “My food is to do the will of Him Who sent Me, and to accomplish His work” (John 4:34). As God’s bond- servant, that should be your goal as well. Be faithful, so God can use you mightily.
