TITUS 2: 9-10

 “Urge bondslaves to be subject to their own masters in everything, to be well-pleasing, not argumentative, not pilfering, but showing all good faith so that they will adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in every respect.”

“Bondslave” refers to  people who had acquired debt and for financial reasons were sold into slavery.  Paul isn’t validating slavery in any form. He is stating how we are to conduct ourselves when we end up in oppressive situations.

There are many forms of slavery today. Criminal slavery imposed on others,  as well as slavery, we impose upon ourselves such as career, credit card debt, image, etc. … So, there is a lesson here on what you allow yourself to be a slave to,  but that is not the point of this passage. 

Instead, these verses reinforce Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men”.  The concept is to realize that you are God’s servant, no matter what the endeavor.  It is all encompassing, and  “fairness” is not the target, excellence is. 

Today’s “entitled” philosophy does not embrace this teaching. This passage demands your unfair boss and the selfish people on your team become important to you. It requires you to enthusiastically work with, not against your demanding employer.  It expects you to be a servant in your marriage and family even when it is not reciprocated. Every group you are involved in should run smoother because you are a part of it, even when it is unfair or one-sided. Your assignment is to treat others as more important than yourself simply because God loves them.

That is where the bar has been set. And though it is tough to swallow in our culture of individual rights, the all-important goal is not to tarnish the name of your Savior.  If you think this is unfair – you are correct… But you don’t want fairness, you want grace. That is what God has given you,  and what you must offer others as well. 

So, if you can’t sacrificially treat your family with respect, work hard for your boss, and be a positive influence on your friends, please don’t teach Sunday School.  This chapter says your self-centered response to unfairness will significantly minimize any impact your religious lecture might have.

“Preach the gospel at all times, and if necessary, use words” - St. Francis