Today, my friends, I’d like to review John MacArthur’s book Slave. Published in January of 2012, Slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ a book detailing the importance of one word which expanded his understanding of our relationship to God. That word is the Greek word for slavery often translated servant.
This book was not only a fascinating read, and a great exegesis of Scripture, but also a real encouragement. If you’ve ever doubted salvation, or wondered if you could lose what has been freely given, this book will clear that up. It was also convicting, in such an intense and deeply felt way, that I can genuinely say it’s changed the way I obey my God and Savior. Understanding the Biblical truths that MacArthur explains in this book makes obedience a greater joy than I before imagined. It will bless you, edify you, and possibly rebuke you. I recommend this book to all audiences, and in particular those believers you know who struggle with assurance. You can find this book here at Grace to You, or in paperback, hardcover, Kindle, and audio. As well as the book, there’s also a two part sermon series that goes into what’s covered in the book. If you’re unable to afford the book, the sermons are a great replacement! I’ll include the links below. As always, beloved brethren, be good Berean’s and study to show yourselves approved.
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Tulips & Honey 
Thanks, sister! Looks like an inspirational resource! I’m looking forward to listening to the videos tomorrow at work.
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I enjoyed the book “Slave” very much
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Just listened to the first video and it was excellent! In our era, we certainly balk at the word, “slave.” When we hear that word we envision people being worked to death on plantations, but Pastor JMac provides the historical/cultural context. Slaves of the King, yes, but also intimates. Pastor JMac has been fighting this “it’s all about me and I’m free to do anything I please” (c)hristianity since 1988 and has been roundly criticized for it.
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I’m so glad you enjoyed these videos, brother! I’m surprise their wasn’t more backlash from this book, perhaps there was at the time? I often hear from atheists or agnostics that the Bible condones slavery. Cultural context doesn’t seem to matter, even when I explain the difference. It’s still a handy bit of information to have, should the argument arise. It was a great system, I know a lot of folks that would be far better off if they were under the care of someone rather than the IRS or the debt collectors. What really surprised me was learning that Rome had laws protecting the indentured slaves. There were heavy penalties for owners who harmed them.
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Re: slavery
It’s so helpful to know the historical context. Yes, for many slaves in the Roman system life was extremely hard yet for others it was a secure and pleasant existence. I see “Slave” was published in 2012. Forgive me if you’re already aware of this but MacArthur stirred up quite a controversy back in 1988 with the publication of “The Gospel According to Jesus.” People accused him of adding works to faith, which was an erroneous interpretation of his point. Below is a link to the Wikipedia article on the “Lordship Salvation Controversy” if you care to read it. A lot of what JMac said in this “Slaves” sermon is a reiteration of his message that offended so many, that a saved person not only accepts Christ as Savior but also as Lord, i.e., if you raise your hand at a Christian gathering but then go home and life your life as before, you probably didn’t genuinely accept Christ. I know you’re intimately aware of that shallow brand of (c)hristianity.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lordship_salvation_controversy
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Wow, that’s really interesting brother, I was unaware. I was born in 1988, seems like a good year to have debated lordship salvation! The gty app has several sermons of his from the 80’s, this must be the reason the topic was addressed more often in them then he does now.
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I’ve had a few people send in negative comments when I post something positive about JMac, still accusing him of adding works to the Gospel.
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