We live in a work world characterized by the division of labor. God has seen fit to give to each of us abilities that others do not possess and given us assignments that only we can fulfill. Jesus explained in Matthew 25:14-15 this very principle, "For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. 15And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey." In this parable some were given more than others. Of course, to whom much is given, much is also expected of them. In other words, those who are given more are expected to produce more. Not everyone is going to be an employer. Some simply do not have the ability nor the wherewithal. They have been called to be employees. If a Christian can, they should seek to be self-employed. This is the general rule, but for some it will not be practicable. Christian employers should seek Christian employees. The rule is to do good to all men, especially those of the household of faith as Galatians 6:10 implores.
Application
To properly understand the Bible, we need to use what is known as applied theology.
Exodus 21:20-21 reads, "And if a man smite his servant, or his maid, with a rod, and he die under his hand; he shall be surely punished. 21Notwithstanding, if he continue a day or two, he shall not be punished: for he is his money." Here we have a case law concerning servants and masters. This can be applied to today’s employer and employees. If these servants were killed by their master, then the master was to be punished and the punishment here is not specified by the Bible. However, we know that if the servant died that day, it would be consider murder which carries the death penalty. However, if the servants do not die, then the master suffers no punishment because he obviously did not intend to kill the servant. The master has an economic interest to ensure that death does not result from his punishing his servant. He would lose an asset and future earnings from his labor.
Paul spoke to masters in the New Testament in Colossians 4:1, "Masters, give unto your servants that which is just and equal; knowing that ye also have a Master in heaven." Earthly masters are to understand the there is someone who is their Master. They are treat and supply a just and equal wage to those that they employ. God holds them accountable. To underpay a worker is not just and equal and God is keeping record. The master is in a position of authority over the employee. He is not to take advantage of the situation and his position of authority. He is to be wise in his dealings with his fellow man. Paul further wrote in Ephesians 6:9, "And, ye masters, do the same things unto them, forbearing threatening: knowing that your Master also is in heaven; neither is there respect of persons with him." Masters are encouraged to treat their servants with deference. This will lead to good personal relations, as well as inspiring more productive employees. Employees work harder when they are treated fairly. God is watching employers in their dealings with their employees.
Paul also had words of admonition for servants in Titus 2:9-10, "Exhort servants to be obedient unto their own masters, and to please them well in all things; not answering again; 10Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things." The word purloining means to pilfer things of small value. Employees engender punishment by their taking advantage of their employers. They take things that do not belong to them, thinking the boss won’t miss it anyway. Employees are to obey just as they would obey Christ. An employee must be honest, otherwise, he will bring shame to the name of Christ. They are not to back talk those who employ them and are in positions of authority over them. This, of course, does not mean that they are to be doormats when circumstances would warrant.
Paul further advised servants in Colossians 3:22, "Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God." Some employees only work when the boss is around and watching them. The minute the cat is away, the employees begin to play. A Christian does not need someone monitoring his every action, for he does what he is paid for. He is not a man pleaser but a God pleaser. He serves God on the job and his attitude that he is not working for man, but for Christ. He is characterized by integrity, honesty, and uprightness.
Conclusion
Life is about two way streets. The Bible gives authority to masters to discipline their servants. However, their authority is limited. Those in positions in superiority are to show restraint and not to go beyond their boundaries. Those under authority are not to take advantage of the goodness of their employer. Employees deserve to be punished for their actions on the job. God’s moral authority reaches even into the workplace.
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