The New Testament was written at a time when slavery was normal, although many of the servants were treated well and became respected as part of the household.  That does not make slavery right, any more than any oppressive servitude today.  But the gospel did not recommend social disobedience movements but submission to the wisdom of God’s Word, as Jesus demonstrated.  Before society’s conscience could change, the servant-hearted nature of Jesus who was unfairly and cruelly treated, was the example for every person who suffered under the heel of others (1 Peter 2:20-25).

When these slaves became followers of Jesus, how were they to demonstrate their faith?   They should show their faith in the way they worked.   Christian workers should be willing to obey their masters, to serve gladly without resentment, rudeness or stealing.  Indeed, they were to go further than that; they should see what pleased their employer and make every effort to achieve that.  It was important for the credibility of the gospel that Christians were known as people who could be trusted, and that they were looking for God’s approval and reward (Matthew 5:16).

Trustworthiness demonstrates somebody's character.  Yet those servants who had previously been in the habit of serving grudgingly, arguing and stealing needed to be taught that those things did not honour Jesus.  Although, personally, Titus and the church elders in Crete would have nothing to gain from teaching slaves to change their behaviour, there was much to be gained for the gospel's sake and God's glory.  If people could see the difference that Jesus Christ made to a slave's life, then the teaching about Jesus would radiate like stars in a dark sky – and spiritually hungry people would be drawn to the truth about Jesus (Philippians 2:14-16).

This still applies to those people who work for others.  We do not primarily work well because somebody pays us, but because Jesus has already paid the price for us to enter His household.  Paul expanded on this teaching in Colossians 3:22-24: "Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favour, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord. Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving".  So, if you work for somebody and you are trusting in Jesus ... you should now know what to do!