I no longer call you slaves

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Easter Season:  Fourth Week :  Wednesday*

*Gospel : Jn 15:9–17*

*First Reading :Acts 1:15–17, 20–26*

*Responsorial Psalm : Ps 113:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8*

*I no longer call you slaves*

*1) Who are these “slaves”?*

In this context, "slaves" (Greek: doulos,  translated as "servants" in some versions) refers to people who serve a master without full understanding, freedom, or personal relationship. 

It reflects the Old Testament and early Jewish

understanding of humans as God’s servants, under His law, often without full access to His inner purposes or heart.

In biblical times, a slave was someone who had no rights of their own and was completely subject to their master's authority.

Spiritually, this term captures the posture of obedience without intimacy—a kind of duty without full knowledge or friendship.

*2) Why were they called slaves?*

The disciples, and by extension the people of God, were often seen as servants of the Lord:

Moses, Joshua, and many prophets were called “servants” of God.

Under the Old Covenant, God revealed Himself through laws and commands. 

People were required to obey, often without understanding the full reasons behind God's will.

The master-servant dynamic was one of reverence, obedience, and hierarchy.

Jesus uses this term to contrast the Old Covenant relationship with the New Covenant intimacy He is offering.

*3) Why does Jesus now call them “friends”?*

Jesus shifts the relationship:

*“I have called you friends, because I have made known to you everything I have heard from my Father.”*

This signifies:

*Revelation:* Friends are told the “why” behind actions. Jesus shares the Father’s heart and plan with His disciples.

*Intimacy*: Friendship implies closeness, trust, and love—not merely obedience.

*Transformation:*  Disciples are no longer just followers under orders—they are sharers in Jesus’ mission, heirs of His love, and partners in the Kingdom.

*4) Slave Vs Friend*

*A) From Servants to Sons and Friends*

Galatians 4:7: *“So you are no longer a slave but a son, and if a son then also an heir through God.*

This reflects the radical shift in identity. 

In Christ, we are adopted children of God, not just workers in His household.

*B) Obedience Rooted in Love, Not Fear*

John 15:14: *“You are my friends if you do what I command you.”*

Friendship with Christ still involves obedience, but it’s now obedience motivated by love, knowledge, and relationship—not fear or blind duty.

*C) New Kind of Service*

Paul still sometimes refers to himself as a slave of Christ (Romans 1:1), but now it’s a willing, loving servanthood rooted in relationship, not compulsion.

It’s the difference between forced service and joyful devotion.

Is my service free or out of compulsion?

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*