They claimed the privilege as Christians of discussing any question relating to the government and the laws, taking care that no spies were present; still, with all their precautions, false brethren made trouble for them by giving private information to the civil authorities against some of their number, whom they disliked; and this led to some oppression and persecution.
"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.