✝️ New Testament
Medium
How does the Apostle Paul, in his letter to Philemon, subtly challenge the social norms of the Roman Empire regarding slavery, without explicitly calling for its immediate abolition?
A
By demanding Philemon immediately free Onesimus and compensate him for his past servitude, setting a legal precedent for manumission.
B
By emphasizing Onesimus's newfound status as a 'beloved brother' in Christ, implicitly calling for a relationship of equality and respect that transcends the master-slave dynamic.
C
By threatening Philemon with excommunication from the early church if he does not comply with Paul's direct order to release Onesimus.
D
By appealing to Roman law, citing existing provisions that allowed slaves to purchase their freedom through dedicated service.
Reference: Philemon 1:10-17