"But the meeting was fully attended. Two members of the church who were
faithful servants to slave-holding brethren were set to guard the doors.
The slaves were allowed to be present and listen to the discussion. This
was carried after much debate, some contending that it would expose the
Christians to just reprehension from the civil authorities; and others
maintaining that it would do the slaves good to hear such doctrines
advanced and enforced as would be quoted from the Apostle relating to
masters and servants.
"The discussion was opened by a brother from Laodicea, an office-bearer
in the church, a private citizen, devoted to study, and an author of
some repute. He was formerly odist at the festivals of Cybele. His
pieces were collected and published under the title of 'Phrygian
Canticles.' His name was Olamus.
"He took the ground that Christianity abrogated slavery. He quoted the
well known words of Paul, so familiar to all who had heard him preach:
'In Christ Jesus there is neither Jew nor Greek, barbarian, Scythian,
bond nor free; but all are one in Christ.' 'The Spirit of the Lord is
upon me because he hath sent me to preach deliverance to the captives,
the opening of the prison doors to them that are bound.
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