How can Exodus 21:21 guide Christians in ethical treatment of employees?

Text under Consideration

“However, if the slave survives a day or two, he is not to be punished, because the slave is his property.” (Exodus 21:21)

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Historical Context

• Ancient Israel regulated an existing slave system, limiting abuse rather than endorsing it.

• Verse 21 sits within laws that required masters to be accountable for violence (vv. 18–27).

• The term “property” (lit., “money”) underscores economic responsibility: a wounded servant meant financial loss, so a wise master would avoid cruelty.

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Timeless Principles

• Human life has value—loss of life demanded punishment (v. 20).

• Authority carries accountability—masters could not act with impunity.

• Economic ownership never cancels moral obligation—God still judged mistreatment.

• Stewardship, not domination—possessing resources or people’s labor imposes duty of care.

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Practical Applications for Today’s Workplace

• Protect well-being: create safe working conditions; avoid practices that harm employees physically or emotionally.

• Exercise authority responsibly: policies and discipline should aim to correct, not to demean or destroy.

• Recognize intrinsic worth: see employees first as image-bearers of God (Genesis 1:27), not merely as “productive assets.”

• Provide fair restitution: when mistakes or injuries occur, respond promptly with compensation and corrective action (cf. Exodus 22:14).

• Cultivate long-term concern: verse 21’s economic angle reminds employers that caring for staff ultimately benefits everyone’s sustainability.

• Reflect Christ’s servant leadership: “Masters, treat your slaves justly and fairly, knowing that you also have a Master in heaven.” (Colossians 4:1)

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Supporting Scripture

• Leviticus 25:53—masters must not rule “ruthlessly.”

• Deuteronomy 24:14-15—prompt, fair wages honor God.

• Proverbs 14:31—“He who oppresses the poor taunts his Maker.”

• James 5:4—unpaid wages cry out to the Lord of Hosts.

By letting Exodus 21:21 remind us that position never excuses mistreatment, Christians can model workplaces marked by justice, dignity, and Christ-like care.