Introduction to Philemon: Slavery in the Old Testament

Slaves existed in ancient Israel, even if the prophets considered the system cruel. In spite of this, slaves were generally considered as inferior and had to show subservience to their owners. Solomon used forced labor to build not only his palace but even the temple itself. Unlike other ancient peoples, though, Israel had laws that

Taking God for Granted (Hosea 9:1-9)

Do not rejoice, Israel; do not be jubilant like the other nations. For you have been unfaithful to your God; you love the wages of a prostitute at every threshing floor. 2 Threshing floors and winepresses will not feed the people; the new wine will fail them. 3 They will not remain in the Lord’s land; Ephraim will return to Egypt and