✝️ New Testament
Hard
How does the book of Philemon challenge or subvert the social norms and power dynamics prevalent in the Roman Empire regarding slavery, and what principles of reconciliation does it exemplify?
A
It explicitly condemns the institution of slavery, advocating for its immediate abolition throughout the Roman Empire.
B
It subtly reinforces the existing social hierarchy by instructing Onesimus to return to Philemon and resume his duties as a slave, albeit with improved treatment.
C
It appeals to Philemon's Christian values to consider Onesimus no longer as a slave but as a beloved brother in Christ, implicitly challenging the ownership mentality and advocating for reconciliation and forgiveness.
D
It focuses primarily on the legal aspects of slavery, outlining the rights and responsibilities of both slave owners and slaves within the framework of Roman law.
Reference: Philemon 1:1-25