Thursday 07 September 2023

Psalm 118:19-29

Background

The original recipients of Peter's letter were living under persecution. They were like ‘aliens’ who had migrated to a new land, and ‘sojourners’ visiting for a short while (v.11). Their Christian identity clashed with local cultures, and with the overarching Roman imperial culture. This made them vulnerable, but also motivated them to present the gospel to their neighbours through honourable conduct (v.12). This included honouring both the Emperor and the Christian community (v.17), but it was challenging to work out how to balance these. Honourable conduct also included the command 'Fear God' which may have been the priority.

The verses addressed to Christian slaves in this passage are difficult to interpret alongside a 21st century view of slavery as immoral and to be resisted in all situations. In 1st century culture, slavery was an accepted part of life. Slaves were seen as property, so were not treated as moral agents, and some even argued that it did not make rational sense to think of slaves suffering, because property is inanimate. The New Testament is radical in addressing slaves as human beings with moral choices to make, but not radical enough by current standards because instead of challenging the institution of slavery it even encourages slaves to endure unjust treatment. 

Those who are suffering unjustly are called to see themselves as following in the way of Christ, who, when suffering, did not resist, but trusted in God to be the ultimate judge; an echo of Jesus’ own teaching to ‘turn the other cheek’ (Matthew 5: 39). This attitude of Christ led to his death, and, in the divine order of things, through the death of Christ his people find forgiveness for sin, healing, and the loving care of an eternal ‘shepherd and guardian’ (v. 25). This is good news for all people, and the logic of this passage is that if Christian people can imitate Christ’s attitude to suffering, they might communicate this blessing even to their persecutors.

To Ponder:

• Christian attitudes to slavery in this passage vary. How do you feel about them?
• What do you think about the idea that because Jesus Christ suffered for the sake of others, it is possible for good to come from other people enduring suffering?

Heavenly Father,
who sees the unseen and notices the unnoticed,
help each of us to hear the Hidden Voices of those
who pray for release from slavery and exploitation,
so that we may give ourselves more fully to the service of your saving love,
and be strengthened together as agents of your healing and hope,
through Jesus Christ,
who himself came to serve as a slave,
so as to bring freedom and grace to all. Amen.

 'A prayer for releasing hidden voices' by the Right Revd Dr Alastair Redfern, chair of the Clewer Initiative, which campaigns against slavery.