Slavery in New Testament Times

This is a background piece of work I have done in preparation for a forthcoming sermon on Colossians 3:18-4:1.

Slavery probably originated about 10,000 years ago.  Slaves were often people who had been captured in war, or were criminals or people who could not pay their debts.

During the time of the great empires of Greece and Rome, slaves would have done most of the work.  They worked on the land, in mines, in handicraft industries, and as servants in the home.

Christian Missionaries – a Story of Oppression?

For many, the story of Christian missions is a story of oppression of other people and their cultures.