1 Timothy 6:2

1 Timothy 6:2 provides specific instructions regarding the conduct of Christian servants who have believing masters. This verse builds upon the previous verse, which addresses servants with unbelieving masters, highlighting the unique dynamics within the early church where social hierarchies existed alongside spiritual equality.

Context of 1 Timothy 6:2

In the Roman world, slavery was a widespread and complex social institution, distinct from later forms of race-based slavery. Individuals could become slaves through various means, including debt, war, or birth. The early Christian church often included both masters and slaves, creating a new social reality where individuals from vastly different statuses were united in faith as "brethren." Paul's instruction here is not an endorsement of slavery, nor is it an outright call for abolition (which would have been revolutionary and destabilizing in the Roman Empire). Instead, it aims to transform the master-servant relationship from within by applying Christian principles, emphasizing mutual respect and dignity. This verse specifically addresses the potential for Christian servants to despise their masters, perhaps feeling that their shared faith negated the traditional hierarchy, or even gave them license to be disrespectful.

Key Themes and Messages

• Spiritual Equality and Brotherhood: The core reason for not despising a believing master is that they are "brethren." This underscores the profound truth that in Christ, social distinctions are transcended, and all believers stand as equals before God. This concept is foundational to Christian community, as also seen in Galatians 3:28.
• Dignity of Service: Servants are exhorted to "rather do them service" because their masters are "faithful and beloved, partakers of the benefit." This elevates labor from mere obligation to an act of willing service within the Christian family. It implies that service done for a fellow believer is an act of love and contributes to the mutual well-being of the community.
• Mutual Benefit and Love: The phrase "partakers of the benefit" (or "good deed") suggests a reciprocal relationship. Masters benefit from the service, and both master and servant are beneficiaries of God's grace and the spiritual bond they share. This fosters an atmosphere of Christian love and respect, encouraging servants to serve diligently, as if serving the Lord Himself (Colossians 3:23).
• Pastoral Responsibility: Timothy is commanded to "These things teach and exhort." This highlights the importance of sound doctrine and practical instruction in shaping the conduct of believers and maintaining harmony within the church.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "despise" is kataphroneō (καταφρονέω), meaning "to think lightly of," "to scorn," or "to look down upon." It implies a disrespectful attitude or a sense of superiority. The instruction is against this attitude, even when social roles might seem to be challenged by spiritual equality. The term "brethren" (adelphoi - ἀδελφοί) powerfully emphasizes the spiritual family bond that transcends earthly status. "Faithful" (pistoi - πιστοί) signifies their trustworthiness and belief, while "beloved" (agapētoi - ἀγαπητοί) points to their status as recipients of divine love and objects of Christian affection.

Practical Application

While direct slavery is not a widespread issue in most modern societies, the principles of 1 Timothy 6:2 remain highly relevant for contemporary workplace dynamics and relationships involving authority. This verse speaks to:

• Employee-Employer Relationships: For Christian employees working for Christian employers, the verse encourages diligence, respect, and a spirit of cooperation, rather than taking advantage of a shared faith or becoming lax in duties. It calls for integrity and excellent service, viewing the work as contributing to the well-being of a fellow believer and the glory of God.
• Respect for Authority: It reinforces the biblical principle of respecting those in positions of authority, even when they are fellow believers, recognizing that God ordains order and roles.
• Avoiding Contempt: It warns against allowing familiarity or a sense of spiritual equality to breed contempt or disrespect in any relationship, whether in the home, church, or workplace. Christian love should always be the guiding principle, fostering mutual honor and service.

This passage reminds believers that our faith transforms all relationships, calling us to act with integrity, respect, and love, reflecting the character of Christ in every sphere of life.