How does Deuteronomy 15:12 guide us in treating those who serve us? Verse in focus “ If your fellow Hebrew, a man or a woman, is sold to you and serves you six years, then in the seventh year you must set him free.” (Deuteronomy 15:12) Core principles drawn from Deuteronomy 15:12 • Human dignity: God treats the servant as a “fellow Hebrew,” underscoring equal worth before Him. • Limited service: Service was temporary—six years, not lifelong bondage. • Liberation required: Release in the seventh year was not optional; it was commanded. • Generous release (15:13-14): Freedom had to be accompanied by resources so the former servant could thrive. • Redemptive memory (15:15): Israel’s former slavery motivated compassionate treatment of others. Practical applications today • Value every worker as an equal image-bearer, whether employee, contractor, or household helper. • Build structures that prevent exploitation—fair wages, reasonable hours, clear paths for advancement. • Practice scheduled release: regular rest days, vacations, and sustainable workloads. • Send off well: if an employee moves on, supply recommendations, severance where possible, and sincere encouragement. • Remember your own redemption: gratitude for God’s mercy fuels mercy toward those who serve us. New Testament echoes • Colossians 4:1 – “Masters, provide your slaves with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” • Ephesians 6:9 – “And masters, treat your slaves the same way. Do not threaten them, since you know that He who is both their Master and yours is in heaven, and there is no favoritism with Him.” • Matthew 7:12 – “In everything, then, do to others as you would have them do to you.” • Philemon 16 – Paul urges that a servant be welcomed “no longer as a slave, but better than a slave, as a beloved brother.” Looking ahead to ultimate freedom Deuteronomy 15 points toward the greater release accomplished by Christ: • Luke 4:18 – He proclaims “liberty to the captives.” • John 8:36 – “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” As the Lord liberates us, we become instruments of liberty and generosity to all who serve alongside us. |
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