Are You A Slave?

Benny B. Bristow

When we first hear the question in the above title, we may answer, “Certainly not!” This response comes because in this nation we cherish our freedom. In fact, our history records a great division and even a cruel war fought over slavery. We would also pity any nation in the world today that would promote and practice slavery. Therefore, within the physical realm, we abhor slavery. However, there is another way to consider being a slave that has the greatest honor that can be received. It is slavery that is spiritual in nature.

Within this context, the accountable people in the world are divided into two classifications: (1) Those who are “Slaves of sin.” (2) And those who are “Slaves of righteousness.” The apostle Paul wrote about these two kinds of slaves in his book to the Christians in Rome.

“But God be thanked that though you were slaves of sin, yet you obeyed from the heart that form of doctrine to which you were delivered. And having been set free from sin, you became slaves of righteousness” (Romans 6:17,18).

Therefore, all who reach the age of accountability become slaves of sin, and the only way out of the slavery of sin is to become slaves of righteousness. What are the differences between these two kinds of slavery?

Masters —The differences begin with masters. The master of all who are “Slaves of sin” is the devil. The master of all who are “Slaves of righteousness” is God.

The Nature of Serving — Those who serve sin, serve the flesh. Those who serve righteousness, serve the spiritual.

The Rewards — The “Slaves of sin” will receive eternal death, but those who choose to be “Slaves of righteousness” will receive eternal life. “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Romans 6:23).

How do all become either “Slaves of sin” or “Slaves of righteousness?” The answer, “By obedience!” “Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves slaves to obey, you are that one's slaves whom you obey, whether of sin leading to death, or of obedience leading to righteousness?” (Romans 6:16).

Yes, all of us are slaves, but to whom? This is a decision that each individual must make. God invites us to become “Slaves of righteousness,” but He does not force us.

It is a beautiful, fulfilling, and rewarding experience to be one of God’s slaves. Have you obeyed the gospel (Romans 1:16), to become saved, and to be a “Slave of righteousness?”