“Servants, be submissive to your masters with all fear, not only to the good and gentle, but also to the harsh” (1 Peter 2:18).
As noted earlier in our introduction to this section of 1 Peter chapter two, the latter portion of this chapter addresses two controversial subjects. The first involved our relationship to governing authorities. The second topic -slavery- will occupy the focus of our attention beginning here in verse eighteen. Before we approach this subject from a historical perspective, let’s first consider how we might apply these teachings in a contemporary setting where the institution of slavery no longer exists.
First, we should acknowledge that modern-day societies have clearly moved beyond this first-century model for working relationships. Although the shameful practice of human trafficking still persists in our 21st century world, the master-slave relationship model no longer exists as a cultural norm for virtually everyone. Thus, we must choose an alternate approach in seeking to understand and apply our text from 1 Peter 2:18.
In this instance, we can adapt the Biblical teaching on this subject to the next closest working arrangement that exists in a typical modern-day society. That working arrangement involves the relationship that exists between an employer and an employee. This approach allows us to observe the principle that is given to us within this passage and adapt it to the needs of modern-day society.
The foundational principle that undergirds this portion of Scripture tells us that God’s people must demonstrate respect for their employers, managers, and/or supervisors. This principle applies to all societies, both ancient and modern, and is adaptable to meet the needs of various working relationships.
However, there is a qualification that accompanies this approach. You see, it is important to recognize that “adapt” or “modify” does not mean “change” or “alter.” In other words, we do not change this Biblical principle to reflect our preferences. Instead, we should use (or adapt) this Biblical principle to inform our thinking on the leader-subordinate relationships that currently exist.
This offers a good way to address changing societal needs and apply Scriptures like the one we find here in 1 Peter 2:18. Nevertheless, it’s important to recognize that our text from 1 Peter 2:18 presents some challenging questions. For example, how could this passage advise slaves to “…be submissive to your masters with all fear” when a master/slave relationship between two human beings is clearly immoral and wrong? We’ll address that question, beginning with a look at some historical context, next.