A Slave of Jesus Christ

In Romans 1:1, before the Apostle Paul describes himself as an apostle chosen by God and sent out to preach the Gospel, he first identifies himself as a “slave of Jesus Christ.” This self-identification is reflective, as Paul likens his relationship with God to that of a Roman slave to his master. This week we shall explore the implications of this imagery, relating it to the life of a Christian who is truly a slave to Jesus.

Paul and Slavery

Slaves were integral to the Roman Empire, forming a substantial part of the labour force and contributing significantly to the economy. Their roles spanned various sectors, from domestic work and skilled trades to agricultural labour and public services. Slaves were extremely important in maintaining the daily operations and prosperity of Roman society.

Throughout his ministry, Paul interacted with slaves on several occasions, such as in his letter to Philemon regarding the runaway slave Onesimus, whom Paul described as a beloved brother in Christ (Philemon 1:16). Additionally, in his letters to the Ephesians (Ephesians 6:5–9) and Colossians (Colossians 3:22-4:1), Paul provided instructions on the conduct of Christian slaves and masters, urging mutual respect and justice.

Paul used the picture of a Roman slave to explain his relationship with Christ. He spoke of his complete submission and obedience to his divine Master. This imagery calls attention to the depth of his devotion and the authority Christ held over his life. Here are four truths we can garner from this imagery:

1. Jesus Owns Believers

Just as Roman slaves were owned by their masters and had no freedom to go their own way, Christians, as slaves of Jesus, are owned by Him. In 1 Corinthians 6:19–20, Paul writes, “You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honour God with your bodies.” This ownership means that our lives are no longer ours to direct. We are called to live in obedience to Christ, following His teachings and commands. Christians who run after false teachings, such as the prosperity gospel, are not truly living as slaves of Christ. They seek their own desires and comfort rather than submitting to the will of Jesus, thus failing to honour their true Master.

2. Lack of Legal Personhood

In the same way Roman slaves had no legal personhood and were entirely dependent on their masters, Christians are entirely dependent on Jesus for their identity and purpose. Galatians 2:20 states, “I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” This complete surrender to Christ means that our identity is no longer rooted in ourselves but in Him. We do not seek our own glory or rights, but instead, we live to glorify Jesus, recognizing that our true personhood and value come from our relationship with Him.

Jesus also says in John 15:5, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” Our spiritual vitality, growth, and fruitfulness come from our connection to Christ. We rely on Him for strength, wisdom, and guidance in all aspects of our lives. This dependence promotes a deep relationship with Jesus, characterized by trust, love, and obedience.

3. Subject to the Master’s Will

Roman slaves were subject to the master’s will, and Christians are similarly called to be subject to the will of Christ. In Luke 22:42, Jesus Himself models this submission in the Garden of Gethsemane, saying, “Not my will, but yours be done.” As slaves of Christ, we are called to seek and obey God’s will above our own. This submission requires trust and humility, acknowledging that God’s plans and purposes are higher and better than our own. It is a call to surrender our desires, ambitions, and plans, entrusting our lives entirely to Him.

4. Work and Treatment

The varied work and treatment of Roman slaves depending on their masters can be likened to the diverse callings and experiences of Christians. Ephesians 2:10 states, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Each Christian is given unique gifts and callings, and we are to serve faithfully in whatever capacity we are placed in. The treatment we receive may vary, and following Jesus may lead to different life circumstances, some challenging and some rewarding. However, our service is ultimately for God’s glory, and we trust in His goodness and sovereignty over our lives.

Conclusion

In Romans 1:1, Paul’s self-identification as a slave of Jesus Christ is a powerful declaration of his complete surrender and devotion to his Master. By likening his relationship with God to that of a Roman slave to his master, Paul draws attention to the depth of commitment, obedience, and dependence that characterize the life of a true Christian. As we reflect on this imagery, we are reminded that our lives are not our own, but we belong to Jesus, called to live in faithful service and submission to Him.