Does the Bible support slavery? Perhaps no issue has been more fiercely debated in the last few years. Underneath this controversy are questions about the goodness of God, the authority and ethical consistency of Scripture, and the credibility of Christian witness.

In a recent viral debate with Glen Scrivener, Alex O’Connor argued that Scripture can just as easily be used to condone slavery as to condemn it. As a popular agnostic YouTuber, O’Connor has established himself as an informed critic of religion. His videos are marked by thoughtful dialogue and intellectual precision.

When debating slavery, O’Connor raises uncomfortable issues that some Christians would rather avoid. While he’s right to name these tensions, his interpretation of the Bible’s teaching on slavery subtly distorts Scripture’s message. His view downplays the image of God, decontextualizes the exodus, and limits the cross’s liberation. When read as a unified whole, Scripture tells a story that dismantles oppression and makes slavery unimaginable.