Slavery and Salvation what a contrast?
According to Webster’s dictionary, the word “slave” is one bound in servitude to a person or household as an instrument of labor. It is human nature that no one wants to be in bondage; however, as we know that slavery practice is as old as the history itself. In fact, according to the “Holy Bible,” slavery existed in Old Testament times (Gen. 21:10). But why the generational victims of slavery in the civilized society are still unable to forget the past suffering of their forefathers?
After witnessing recent horrible incidents throughout the world, and reading few historical articles on this subject matter, I have come to the conclusion that the “Salvation” is the only answer to resolve this issue. Because in the history of slavery many great political leaders have tried to completely abolish it, but still it exists in many parts of the world. For example, in 1542 Emperor Charles V of Spain passed a law to abolish colonial slavery, especially to end the African and Indian slave trade. But it did not work out. However, later it was Christian leaders, and believers who were able to successfully abolish it; therefore, now slavery is unlawful in the civilized societies. That is one of the reasons why the United State of America’s (USA’s) founding fathers stated in their (1776) “Declaration of Independence” document that “we hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights.”
Prior to the American Declaration of Independence (1776), in Great Britain in 1774, John Wesley (founder of Methodism) fought for the slave trade abolishment, and he published a paper titled “Thoughts Upon Slavery.” Later many leaders like William Wilberforce (1780), who was a politician later became an Evangelical Christian also fought for the slave trade abolishment, and because of him only the “Slave Trade Act of 1807” was able to pass in the British parliament.
Based upon historical pieces of evidence, the results indicate that the Christian moral principles provided the guidance to our forefathers to abolish the slavery. Therefore, it is a known fact that even though slavery started in the Old Testament times, but because of the New Testament (“Salvation”) teaching was able to abolish it. Yes, God’s word teaches us to “forgive,” and Salvation is only through Christ Jesus, Son of God. I hope and pray that people can forgive the past through “His Word.” As apostle Paul in the New Testament states that “formerly when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. But now that you know God, how is it that you are turning back to those weak miserable principles? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again (Gal. 4:8-9 NIV)? ”
I am able to forgive the past because of His Word, which first came to our families through John Wesley ministry. Therefore, I admire him, and it is the fact that had it not for his work we would be still in slavery. If your families are also being blessed because of his ministry, please share your thoughts and experience. Appreciated!