Bible Team Challenge

Throughout history, slavery has been a major debate. Although it is mostly seen as a political and economic argument, religion and Christian beliefs actually had a large role in the dispute, providing evidence for both the pro and anti slavery dispute. 

Anti Slavery Argument:

Christian Abolitionist Movement 

Religion and Christian beliefs had a large role in the pushing back against slavery. Christianity and the Bible were often used as resources to back the claim that slavery is unfair and unjust. In fact, Christian abolitionists originally started the abolitionist movement against slavery. 

Some ideas were simple and obvious, while other arguments required deeper research and understanding. 

Religious Arguments Against Slavery 

One religious argument often used by Christian abolitionists was clearly stated in the bible. Exodus 21:16 states, “Whoever kidnaps someone, either to sell him or to keep him as a slave, is to be put to death.” This statement is undeniably a claim against slavery and provides  a very straightforward argument. 

Other major Christian beliefs backed up the anti-slavery argument even if they weren't as direct. One major Christian belief is that we all have one master, no one is the master of another on earth because we all look up to the same master in heaven.

Colossians 4:1 states, “Masters, grant to your slaves justice and fairness, knowing that you too have a Master in heaven.” This also aligns with the commandment that we can not have any other idols or Gods before him. 

Another main idea is that we are all brothers. God is our father, and we are all made from his image equally.

This has always been a major part of Christianity, and is clearly proven here in Galatians 3:28, “So there is no difference between Jews and Gentiles, between slaves and free people, between men and women; you are all one in union with Christ Jesus.” All of these ideas, beliefs, and quotes provided the Christian abolitionists with a strong argument against slavery 

Pro Slavery: 

Historically, slavery in ancient Israel was a way to survive economically where there were set laws to protect these slaves, and ensure they were being treated fairly opposed to the violent version we know of today.  Biblical Chronology

Exodus 21:2-3 explains that  “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he is to serve you for six years. But in the seventh year, he shall go free, without paying anything.” This provides the information that if someone were to buy another human who is willingly selling themselves, they must keep them as servants for 6 years, and let them regain freedom on the 7th.

Leviticus 25:39-43 “If any of your fellow Israelites become poor and sell themselves to you, do not make them work as slaves. They are to be treated as hired workers or temporary residents among you.” further informs you of the boundaries that were set when it came to how these servants should be treated.

Deuteronomy 15:12-15 “And when you release them, do not send them away empty-handed. Supply them liberally from your flock, your threshing floor and your winepress.” This verse is the most impacting to the readers. This passage explains that the slave owners are to gift their slaves when they are let free as a token of gratitude for their service.

In conclusion, Christianity was used to support both sides of the slavery debate. Abolitionists pointed to biblical teachings about equality and justice, while on the other hand, passages that regulated servitude in ancient Israel were used. These different interpretations show how religion influenced opinions on slavery throughout history.

Credits:

Caroline: Introduction, Anti Slavery Argument

Payton: Conclusion, Pro-Slavery Argument

AI Disclosure:

On this assignment I wrote everything authentically and only used AI to check grammar, and help organize my writing.