Ephesians 6:5 – “Slaves, obey your earthly masters with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart, just as you would obey Christ.”

Extended Explanation

This verse is part of Paul’s teaching on relationships within the Christian household. In the ancient world, slavery was a normal part of society, and many Christians found themselves in positions of servitude. Paul tells slaves to obey their masters—not because slavery is ideal, but because their ultimate service is to Christ.

The phrase “obey your earthly masters” instructs slaves to follow their masters’ commands with diligence. However, this is not just about external obedience; Paul adds “with respect and fear, and with sincerity of heart.” This means they should serve with integrity and a genuine attitude, not just to please people but as an act of devotion to God.

The key point is in the last part of the verse: “just as you would obey Christ.” Paul reminds believers that their true Master is the Lord. Even in difficult circumstances, their work is an opportunity to honor God.

While slavery is no longer common today, the principle still applies—Christians should serve faithfully in their work, treating their employers or authorities with respect, because ultimately, they are serving God.

Historical Context

In Paul’s time, slavery was widespread throughout the Roman Empire. It was different from the brutal, race-based slavery that existed in later history. Roman slavery varied—some slaves did hard labor, while others held skilled positions, managed households, or even ran businesses. Many were eventually freed.

Christianity spread among both slaves and masters. Some Christian masters freed their slaves, but not all did. Paul does not directly attack the system of slavery here, but in other places, he emphasizes that all believers—slave or free—are equal in Christ (Galatians 3:28). He also encourages masters to treat their slaves with kindness (Ephesians 6:9, Colossians 4:1).

In Philemon, Paul urges a Christian master to welcome back his runaway slave, Onesimus, not as a servant but as a “dear brother” in Christ (Philemon 16). This shows that Christianity was transforming society from the inside out—challenging oppression by changing hearts.

Theological Implications

This verse teaches that all work should be done as service to Christ. Whether someone is in a position of authority or under authority, they are ultimately accountable to God.

It also reminds us that our attitude in difficult situations matters. Many early Christians were powerless in society, but Paul encourages them to work with sincerity and faithfulness. This is a model for all believers—no matter their circumstances, they can serve in a way that honors God.

Another important truth is that human distinctions (like slave and master) do not define a person’s value in God’s eyes. The Bible consistently teaches that all people are made in God’s image and that salvation is available to everyone, regardless of status.

Literary Analysis

Paul uses strong, action-oriented words:

• “Obey” – A command for submission and faithfulness.
• “Respect and fear” – Not fear of cruelty, but an attitude of reverence and honor.
• “Sincerity of heart” – A call to genuine, wholehearted service.
• “Just as you would obey Christ” – The ultimate motivation is not to please people but to honor God.

This verse is part of a larger section (Ephesians 6:5-9) addressing slaves and masters. Paul balances this command by also telling masters to treat their slaves fairly (Ephesians 6:9). His teaching does not justify slavery but gives guidance on how Christians should live faithfully in whatever situation they are in.

Relevant Biblical Cross-References

• Colossians 3:22-24 – “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.”
• 1 Corinthians 7:21-22 – Encourages slaves to gain freedom if possible but reminds them that their ultimate identity is in Christ.
• Galatians 3:28 – “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
• Philemon 15-16 – Paul urges Philemon to see his slave Onesimus as a brother in Christ.
• Ephesians 6:9 – Paul warns masters to treat their slaves well, reminding them that God is the true Master.

What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian

Though slavery is not part of modern life in most places, the principle of working faithfully under authority applies to employees, students, and anyone under leadership.

• Work with integrity – Christians should do their jobs well, not just to impress people but because they serve God.
• Respect authority – Even in difficult workplaces or unfair situations, believers should respond with patience and honor, unless they are being asked to sin.
• Find purpose in work – No matter the job, it can be done for God’s glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).

This verse is also an encouragement to those who feel stuck in difficult circumstances. Paul reminds believers that their work is not wasted—when done with the right heart, even the smallest task has eternal value.

How This Verse Relates to a Loving God

God does not view people based on their earthly status. He loves all people equally, and His commands are given for their good.

This verse shows that God cares about how people are treated. While He doesn’t promise to change every social system immediately, He works through transformed hearts. Christianity ultimately led to the downfall of slavery, not through rebellion but through changed lives and the recognition of human dignity.

God also rewards faithfulness. Even when people are in unfair or difficult situations, He sees their obedience and honors their work (Colossians 3:23-24).

How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ

Jesus Himself took on the form of a servant. He willingly humbled Himself, submitting to human authority and ultimately to the cross.

• Philippians 2:7-8 – “Rather, he made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross!”
• John 13:14-15 – Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, showing that true leadership is marked by humility and service.
• Matthew 20:28 – “The Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

Just as Jesus served faithfully, Christians are called to serve in their daily lives, whether they are in leadership or under authority.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How can you apply this verse in your workplace or daily responsibilities?
2. What does this verse teach about attitude and motivation in work?
3. How does the Bible’s teaching on slavery challenge the way we think about authority and service?
4. In what ways can Christians reflect Christ’s humility in their jobs and relationships?
5. How does knowing that we ultimately serve Christ change the way we approach work and difficult circumstances?

Ephesians 6:5 teaches that no matter what situation believers find themselves in, they can live faithfully by serving as if they are working for Christ. It’s a reminder that God sees our efforts, values our work, and calls us to honor Him in all that we do.