Book Review: Slave by John MacArthur

Editor's Note: Hannah is my darling wife and once in a while she volunteers to do a book review for me. Here's her take on John MacArthur's Slave.


Slave by John MacArthur takes an in-depth journey through the New Testament metaphor and background of slavery. MacArthur gives the historical setting by explaining and providing examples of slavery in the Roman world. I never knew that slavery also had Old Testament roots until I read the book. It challenged me to place the New Testament verses about our slavery to Christ in the context of the first century world instead of through the filter of 19th century American slavery.

I appreciate how MacArthur shows the importance of understanding the slave-master metaphor. Since most modern Bibles translate ‘slave’ as ‘servant’, we often lose the power of this illustration. When we see God as our master and ourselves as slaves, it affects our beliefs about God’s character and changes the way we live.

As is always the case with MacArthur's writings, the book is well organized and easy to follow. His mini-biographies of famous Christians who saw themselves as slaves to Christ, such as John Newton, make the book even more personal. Slave sticks closely to the Scriptures and validates every premise using theBible. The book's only drawback may be that some may find this logical, frank, and well-researched approach too scholarly.

To buy the book, visit Amazon.com (direct link).

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson as part of their BookSneeze Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."