Nor does Paul write overtly as one who is trying to challenge the Roman laws of slavery. Sadly, he nowhere comments on the social effects of the gospel. Many argue in this regard that Paul’s view of the justice to be achieved in this case can be realized best through the character of a “graceful persuasion to justice,” and this is perhaps its most descriptive epitaph overall. It is through graceful partnership, which is sustained and constantly renewed by the Lord, that Paul anticipates breakthroughs in social relationships.
