1 Peter 2:19-21

“If you endure when you are beaten for doing wrong, what credit is that? But if you endure when you do right and suffer for it, you have God’s approval.” vs. 20

Slavery was firmly entrenched in the Roman Empire during the first and second centuries, and as the gospel was proclaimed many slaves were baptized and became part of faith community. Peter addresses them in this letter, advising them to accept the authority of their masters, even if they are harsh. He tells them to endure when beaten even if they have done nothing wrong.

It’s easy to see why verses such as these were  favorites of slave-holders in the years living up to the Civil War. However, Peter wasn’t commenting on slavery as an institution, and it’s doubtful that any follower of Jesus would have ever endorsed systemic slavery as a way of life. But he was addressing his brothers and sisters who were slaves, and told them that in enduring undeserved beatings they were following the example of Jesus in his journey to the cross.

Slavery still exists in our world, but it’s not likely that there are many slaves in our congregations. But there’s still plenty of abuse and unfair treatment! Unkind and cruel bosses abound. Some of us may have suffered at their hands. And, while such treatment is always unacceptable, it can be an occasion for a follower of Jesus to experience what it’s like to be a suffering servant, and even grow stronger in their faith.

Thought for the Day: How do I react to harsh and unfair treatment?