What does the Bible say about debtor?
Bible Topic · WEB
The Bible teaches that debt and servitude, though regulated in a fallen world, must be handled with justice, mercy, honesty, and concern for human dignity. Israel's laws limited indentured service, required release, protected family rights, and forbade exploiting a poor brother, reflecting the Lord's redeeming care for His people (Exodus 21:2-6; Leviticus 25:25-41, 47-55). Fair dealing in loans, property, and entrusted goods was required (Exodus 22:10-15; Leviticus 25:14-17). Nehemiah 10:31 shows concern to prevent commerce from overriding Sabbath worship. Jesus urges reconciliation with creditors and warns that unpaid obligations can bring serious consequences (Matthew 5:25-26), while calling His disciples to generosity rather than grasping self-protection (Matthew 5:40).
Study outline
Curated topical outlines from classic public-domain study works.
Nave's Topical Bible
- LAWS CONCERNING Exodus 21:2-6; Exodus 22:10-15; Leviticus 25:14-17; Leviticus 25:25-41; Leviticus 25:47-55; Nehemiah 10:31; Matthew 5:25; Matthew 5:26; Matthew 5:40; Matthew 18:25
- UNCLASSIFIED SCRIPTURES RELATING TO 2 Kings 4:1-7; Nehemiah 5:3-5; Job 20:18; Job 20:19; Matthew 18:23-33; Luke 20:9-16
- See CREDITOR
- See DEBT
- See SURETY
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