XXsur-vant (ebhedh; doulos): A very common word with a variety of meanings, all implying a greater or less degree of inferiority and want of freedom: (1) The most frequent usage is as the equivalent of "slave" (which see), with its various shades in position (Gen 9:25; 24:9; Ex 21:5; Mt 10:24; Lk 17:7, and often); but also a hired workman where "hired servant" translates Hebrew and Greek expressions which differ from the above. (2) An attendant in the service of someone, as Joshua was the "servant" the Revised Version (British and American) "minister" of Moses (Nu 11:28). (3) As a term of respectful self-depreciation referring to ones self, "thy servant." or "your servant" is used in place of the personal pronoun of the first person: (a) in the presence of superiors (Gen 19:2; 32:18, and often); (b) in addressing the Supreme Being (1 Sam 3:9; Ps 19:11; 27:9; Lk 2:29, and often). (4) Officials of every grade are called the "servants" of kings, princes, etc. (1 Sam 29:3; 2 Sam 16:1; 1 Ki 11:26; Prov 14:35, and often). (5) The position of a king in relation to his people (1 Ki 12:7). (6) One who is distinguished as obedient and faithful to God or Christ (Josh 1:2; 2 Ki 8:19; Dan 6:20; Col 4:12; 2 Tim 2:24). (7) One who is enslaved by sin (Jn 8:34).
William Joseph Mcglothlin