Let as many as are bondservants under the yoke count their own masters worthy of all honor, that the name of God and the doctrine not be blasphemed.
The two opening verses of this chapter give a specific reason for the proper conduct of the Christian in whatever state he should find himself. The reason was concern for the faith. It is concern for the gospel and its reputation growing out of a love for Christ that is the great mover of right behavior. Paul’s admonition to honor the unbelieving master and his warning not to despise the believing master are prompted by concern for the faith. Any age will suffer great loss in spiritual mooring when men are unwilling to deny themselves for the sake of the gospel.