Does the Bible condone slavery? Critics often point to verses like Leviticus 25 as proof that Scripture supports the kind of dehumanizing chattel slavery we know from the antebellum South. But is that REALLY what the text is teaching? Old Testament scholar and author, Dr. Paul Copan, joins Frank to unpack this hot-button issue and explain how to think carefully about slavery in its historical and redemptive context. You’ll hear answers to questions like:
- What are 8 things a person needs to study in order to understand this topic well?
- What does the opening chapter of Genesis teach us about slavery?
- What is chattel slavery and how is it different from slavery in the Bible?
- How did the Mosaic laws on slavery compare to other nations in the Ancient Near East?
- What is the context of Leviticus 25:44 and how should it be understood?
- How is the term “slave” in modern Bible translations misleading?
- What is the ultimate vision of God’s Law when it comes to human dignity and freedom?
- Why wasn't slavery completely prohibited in the Old Testament?
Tune in as Frank and Paul peel back the layers of cultural context, translation challenges, and God’s ultimate plan of redemption—revealing why the Bible’s teaching on this controversial and complex issue is far different than what skeptics claim. This episode will barely scratch the surface, so be sure to tune in next week as they continue the conversation!
Resources mentioned during the episode:
Paul's website - https://paulcopan.com/
Is God a Moral Monster? - https://a.co/d/6tykn3N
Is God a Vindictive Bully? - https://a.co/d/3RmUoIo
Christianity Contested - https://a.co/d/eu1eQhe
Slavery in the Bible: Answering Atheist Critiques - https://youtu.be/ZImmDmr8pxk
The BIBLE and SLAVERY Explained! with Dr. Carmen Imes - https://youtu.be/qWvwkHKWAfE
