ebooks Slave of Christ: A New Testament Metaphor for Total Devotion to Christ (New Studies in Biblical Theology) by Murray J. Harris in History

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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. Harris provides excellent background material on slavery in the Roman world that ...By Andrew T HancockMurray Harris writes this book to explore the New Testament word group doulos (translated slave or servant) and to explain the slave of Christ metaphor as a picture of the Christian’s relationship with God. Harris’ hope for the book is that it would draw attention to the metaphor of slavery in order to revive interest in the often neglected theme and to promote wholehearted devotion to Christ (19). The book opens by offering a list of the uses of doulos and explanations of the slave of Christ expression in Scripture (17-24). Chapters 2-3 explain background material to the theme by covering slavery in the Roman Empire in the first century and by giving details about New Testament attitudes toward physical slavery (25-68). The next section of the book (chapters 4-7) explain the four main connotations of the doulos word group in Scripture; slavery as freedom; lordship; ownership; and privilege (69-138). The final section of the book (chapters 8-9) explains the significance of the slave of Christ phrase in the New Testament and offers four examples of characters who demonstrated the theme in their actions; Dorcas; Onesiphorus; Priscilla; and Aquila (139-172).This book is a thorough and scholarly treatment of the New Testament metaphor of slave of Christ. Harris provides excellent background material on slavery in the Roman world that serves as a backdrop for the biblical use of the metaphor. The introductory chapter explains the rationale for the book well and sets the stage for the rest of the book by listing the occurrences of the expression slave of God in Scripture. Harris’ use of question and answer format throughout the book serves to keep the reader interested in the theme. This book revives the importance and poignancy the slave of Christ theme that has often been lost in modern English translations. Harris writes with clarity; concern; and the necessary sensitivity and balance required by this theme. All of the major texts about slave of Christ are covered with a grammatical precision that is also informed by scholarly reference material. Particularly helpful is the four part explanation of the doulos word group as freedom; lordship; ownership; and privilege. Harris insightfully explains how the slavery to Christ image is a wholly positive—someone who is humble in submission; obedient to the Master’s will; and preoccupied with pleasing Christ (143). Harris also carefully explains the limitations of the metaphor. Harris’ explanation of the life and ministry of Pricilla and Aquila as slaves to Christ is particularly thorough and perceptive.The book has engaging research questions and clear rationale but lacks a clear thesis statement and explanation of methodology. Harris does pause to summarize his thoughts throughout the book but a comprehensive summary of the main findings of the book is missing. At the end of the book the reader is left with excellent information on the topic but without a concise overview of the slavery metaphor or any ideas on how to apply the truths to life. A final chapter including a summary and application section would improve the book.6 of 6 people found the following review helpful. A Significant Contribution to N.T. StudiesBy Michael D. FiorelloHarris' book begins with a detailed study of the linguistic; historical; legal; and social contexts of the institution of slavery in ancient Israel; Greece; and Rome in the first century. The book then studies Paul's metaphoric use (and the implications) of slave terminology with respect to the Christian's relationship with God. He argues that Paul's use of the slave metaphor connotes exclusive ownership; total availability; and complete dependence rather than enforced; loss of freedom; or cringing subservience. This book brings a significant contribution to New Testament studies.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. heart warming and devotionalBy Martin AsareA book well written to stir the heart to Devotion to christ and the body of Christ. Puts the beauty of serving as a slave where it should be in an age where the concept of slavery only has negative connotations. A must read for all christians seeking to live out Rom 12:1-2