"God cannot approve of a system of servitude, in which the master is guilty of assuming absolute power - of assuming God's place and relation towards his fellow-men"

This quote by Gerrit Smith speaks with the injustice of slavery and the power dynamics in between masters and slaves. Smith is saying that God can not approve of a system of servitude in which the master has taken on the function of God, having outright power over their fellow-men. Smith is indicating that the master has no right to assume this power, as it is not their location to do so. He is likewise recommending that the power dynamics between master and slave are inherently unjust, as the master is handling a role that is not theirs to take. Smith is making a moral argument against slavery, suggesting that it is incorrect for one person to have such power over another. He is also suggesting that the power characteristics in between master and slave are not in line with God's will, as God would not authorize of such a system. Smith's quote talks to the injustice of slavery and the power characteristics in between masters and slaves, and is an effective suggestion of the need for justice and equality.