How does Exodus 21:19 connect with Jesus' teachings on forgiveness and justice? Setting the Old Testament Scene • Exodus 21:19: “if he can rise again and walk around outside with his staff, then the one who struck him shall be cleared; he shall pay only for the lost time and shall ensure he is completely healed.” • The verse follows a fight that causes injury. God requires: – Personal responsibility for harm done. – Financial restitution until the victim has “completely healed.” – No further vengeance once restitution is made (“shall be cleared”). • Justice is concrete, measurable, and restorative, not merely punitive. Key Principles in Exodus 21:19 • Restitution over retaliation — compensation replaces escalating violence. • Value of human life and labor — lost time must be paid. • Compassionate accountability — the aggressor must help the injured recover. Jesus’ Expansion of the Principle • Matthew 5:38-39: “You have heard that it was said, ‘Eye for eye and tooth for tooth.’ But I tell you, do not resist an evil person…” – Jesus quotes the same legal context (Exodus 21:23-25) and moves from limited retaliation to radical non-retaliation. – The Law curbs vengeance; Jesus calls hearts to forgive. • Matthew 18:21-22 — unlimited forgiveness “seventy times seven.” • Luke 6:31 — “Do to others as you would have them do to you.” – Builds on the Exodus mandate of caring for the one we have wronged; now extended to proactive kindness even toward offenders. Unity of Justice and Forgiveness in Christ • Justice is satisfied: sin’s debt is paid at the cross (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24). • Forgiveness is offered: believers release personal vengeance because God has taken vengeance upon Himself on Calvary (Romans 12:19-21). • Restitution principle lives on through: – Confession and making amends (Luke 19:8-9; Zacchaeus). – Bearing one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) until “completely healed,” echoing Exodus 21:19. Practical Takeaways for Us Today • When we wrong someone, we: – Admit the offense. – Make tangible restitution where possible. – Stay involved until the injured party is “completely healed.” • When wronged, we: – Seek fair resolution without vindictiveness. – Choose forgiveness, trusting God’s ultimate justice. • The Law gives the framework; Jesus supplies the heart-change that makes forgiveness and restorative justice a living reality. |
    |