In 1 Timothy 6:3-5, I really like what it says. It says, “Whoever teaches otherwise and does not agree with the sound words of our Lord Jesus Christ and the teaching that is in accordance with godliness, is conceited, understanding nothing, and has a morbid craving for controversy and for disputes about works. From these come envy, dissension, slander, base suspicions, and wrangling among those who are depraved in mind and bereft of the truth, imagining that godliness is a means of gain.” I think these verses really hit home for me because as a Catholic college student, I often feel like many people think that we can fill the void we feel in our hearts with materialistic things, love, etc., however, these are ‘morbid cravings.’ Despite feeling good in the moment, they only drag us farther away from God. The temporary happiness in reality doesn’t drown out the fact that we have to write five papers, and study for finals. It really just makes us unhappy longer because we wanted the temporary happiness. That is why God wants us to put the morbid cravings to rest! He proceeds to tell us to be people of faith and rebuke all of the envy and other evil cravings that us as humans may think are inevitable. If we make a mistake He wants us to come and confess, and fight the good fight of faith. He encourages us to not be rich in money and things but rich in faith and good heart.
So, how does this connect with slavery? If the slaves have believing masters, it is important for the slaves to treat their master with utmost respect, for they are members of God’s family. As a matter of fact, the slaves are encouraged to be even more helpful.