Ephesians (W11D5) No Favortism
Week 11. Friday: No Favoritism
PRAY: Ask God to speak to you from His Word.
READ: Ephesians 6:9
9 And masters, treat your slaves in the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that he who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with him.
UNDERSTAND: get a deeper understanding of the key words
Masters (Greek: kyrios): a title of honor respect and reverence
This is specifically referring to the owner of household servants.
For application purposes we should read this passage with employee and employer relationships in mind. This could also be applied to supervisors and volunteer leaders.
In the Same Way (Greek: poieō autos): refers back to the previous verses
Do Not Threaten (Greek: aniēmi apeilē): to give up making threats
Christian leaders should not threaten those under their leadership.
Making threats is an indication we are not leading well. Threats come from a place of anger. We should never let ourselves become angry to the point of making threats.
Both Their Master and Yours: everyone has the same ultimate authority
Since we are all under the authority of Christ, we should lead with humility.
We are accountable to Christ to how we lead the people that He has placed under our leadership and care.
Favoritism (Greek: prosōpolēmpsia): partiality, respect of persons
Christ does not give leaders any special treatment just because they lead.
In fact, leaders are held to a higher standard. Leadership is a stewardship. We must lead responsibly and with great care for those we lead.
APPLY: What is this passage calling me to do?
If you are a leader you are called to lead with excellence. But more than that, you are called to care for those you lead. Christian leaders should never mistreat those under their authority. If you are not a leader, this passage may help you realize the level of pressure and accountability your leaders are dealing with. Extend leaders grace so they can lead well.
How does this passage help you to be a better leader?
How does this passage help you understand the responsibility of leadership?
PRAY: Ask God to help you understand and apply what you learned.
