The LS Collective Podcast: What About Slavery in the Bible?
Imagine talking with your friend about your faith and one of the things they bring up is the issue of slavery in the Bible. They might say something like, “Your God allowed for people to own slaves and beat them. What kind of a loving God would allow that?” Your friend is refering to these verses:
“Anyone who beats their male or female slave with a rod must be punished if the slave dies as a direct result, but they are not to be punished if the slave recovers after a day or two, since the slave is their property.” (Exodus 21:20-21, NIV)
The reality is, the imaginary scenario that you just read actually happened and people are asking these kinds of questions. So what do we do with that? It seems as though God is condoning slavery! Your first thought might be to open your Bible and to read the surrounding context of this passage. That would be the best first step you could take! When you do this, you will find that slavery in the Bible is not what you think it is. In fact, slavery thoughtout history served different purposes.
As you listen to Episode 21 of the LS Collective Podcast, pay attention to the purpose of slavery in Old Testament times and listen to how it differs from Roman slavery that is mentioned in the New Testament. Also, note how slavery in the Old Testament and the New Testament was very different from the Trans-Atlantic American slave trade. After listening, let us know what you think! If you have any thoughts or questions you can email us at lscollectivepodcast@gmail.com. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram!
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