My personal interpretation of these verses is summed up in verse 6: "But godliness with contentment is great gain. That in the overall picture it's theme and message pairs with Romans 8:28 and Philippians 4:11-13. Rather like Paul who found himself in prison and other uncomfortable circumstances, we should pursue Godliness and discipleship as an example for others no matter where we find ourselves. Sometimes the circumstances in which we find ourselves is where God has placed us for His mission to others. The book of Esther is a good example of this too.Reflecting wrote:
It seems to me to NOT be against slavery if that is the culture in which you live.
It even goes on, it seems to me, to teach directly against seeking to change that culture. Verses 3-5
3 If any man teach otherwise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godliness;
4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strifes of words, whereof cometh envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings,
5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw thyself.
And to give instruction how to please God as a slave.
6 But godliness with contentment is great gain.
7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.
8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content.
And how to view your master with compassion and concern.
9 But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition.
10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
Idk, verses 6 on can apply to all of us and could have applied to the slave or to the master, but I’m not sure how we as freedom loving people understand verses 1-5.
Does my worldview align with scripture?
I wish I could understand this differently, because I don’t want to change my position on slavery and that is a scary place to be.
It's not addressing political activism and social justice to change the culture which, in my opinion, is a distraction from discipleship growth - if every person concentrated on being the best disciple of Christ, that in and of itself would change the world: not political or social justice policies. Rather Paul speaks of being open to the fact that we are in a situation for a reason: that of being a witness to Christ to unbelievers.
YMMV