A note from our pastor:

“Knowing that whatsoever good thing any man doeth, the same shall he receive of the Lord, whether he be bond or free.”

Ephesians 6:8

Good Morning Dearly Beloved,

In our study verse this week, the Apostle brings his remarks regarding servants to a close with a truth which applies to all people. Regardless of situation, race, gender, or any other qualifier the Apostle echos a truth taught by Jesus Christ in his sermon on the plain in the early days of his ministry.

The lesson is captured in Luke chapter six where after teaching his disciples to love their enemies, he tells them to further judge not, condemn not, and to forgive. This was a difficult lesson for those gathered with Jesus as the persecution they were experiencing was extreme. Christ does not deny the difficulty of the instruction, or dismiss their pain, but instead tells them if they give it will be given unto you. Even more so, it will be given to you in the same measure as you gave it to others. In other words, Christ tells them if they love, forgive, and have mercy they will receive love, forgiveness, and mercy in the same amounts as they gave it.

The Apostle in this lesson to those who were in the role of servant or slave is echoing the same message. He is not attempting to diminish the pain, both mentally and physically, of their position in life. The Apostle does not have the power nor the role to change their situation. Instead, he provides those servants and slaves with a tool to handle their situation. What is the tool? Faith and hope in Jesus Christ.

The final instruction to the slaves and servants is to be kind, be merciful, be forgiving, and be loving because it will be returned unto them. The Apostle is not promising their actions will change the hearts and mind of their masters. Rather, he is promising them the love, forgiveness, and mercy of Jesus Christ as well as others around them who were seeking to follow Christ.

This instruction to the servants is true for all disciples of Christ. It echos the very core teachings of our Lord. Love our enemies, treat our neighbors with mercy, and find ways to show love and forgiveness in our lives.

Our Prayers are with you daily,

Brother Jeremiah