We do not like the term slave. I’m guessing that those people who own slaves would find the label more detestable than those of us who only know slavery from history. Life-long enslavement and short-term bond enslavement was common among the first century Mediterranean people. So when Paul penned 6:16 there must have been a shudder go through the hearts of many of those who heard his message. Paul makes it very clear in this section that we ARE ALL slaves. The outstanding question is; To whom? As Christians there are two slave masters tugging on our lives; sin and obedience. (Those outside of Christ bow to one master.) Paul goes on to point out that the master Obedience has the strength to win every battle. But there is a component of faith in our hearts that will move us to follow that master. When we obey this master then we will find no chains in our lives. We are still slaves, but were realize that it is an honor and a freedom that accompanies this slavery. In this slavery we have joy unspeakable and full of glory.
It took me about 17 minutes to read this passage.
Stuart
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