Summary

Although the institution of slavery in the Roman empire was different than European slavery we are more familiar with, it still was an unjust and cruel practice. Some biblical scholars claim that the Bible actually defended the practice of slavery or at the very least delayed its overthrow. They claim Jesus never condemned slavery. The truth is the Bible was profoundly counter-cultural regarding slavery. The New Testament decries slavery, and urges slaves to win their freedom and affirms the value and equality of all persons, slave or free. It was the NT ethic that led to the abolition of slavery.