How should Exodus 21:21 influence our understanding of accountability and responsibility today? Setting the verse in context • Exodus 21 follows the Ten Commandments, applying “love God, love neighbor” (Matthew 22:37-40). • Israelite servanthood was time-limited and regulated (Exodus 21:2; Deuteronomy 15:12-15), unlike modern images of slavery. • The verse sits among case-laws that restrained violence (Exodus 21:18-32). What Exodus 21:21 says “However, if the servant gets up after a day or two, the master shall not be punished, for the servant is his property.” • The Hebrew phrase translated “gets up” means the servant recovers enough to stand and continue living. • “Property” (Hebrew: keseph) refers to financial loss; the master already bears the cost of lost labor and medical care during recovery. Principles of accountability in the verse 1. Life is protected. Verse 20 demands punishment—even death (Leviticus 24:17)—if the servant is killed. 2. Intent and outcome matter. Accidental injury differs from fatal or permanently crippling harm (Exodus 21:26-27). 3. Earthly authority is limited. A master’s ownership of labor never overrides God’s ownership of life (Genesis 1:27). 4. Civil penalties fit the damage (Exodus 21:23-25); God requires proportionate justice, not vengeance. Broader biblical echoes • Genesis 9:6—“Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed…” underscores the sanctity of life. • Proverbs 22:22-23 warns against exploiting the poor because “the LORD will take up their case.” • Colossians 4:1 commands modern employers: “Masters, supply your servants with what is right and fair, because you know that you also have a Master in heaven.” Applications for responsibility today • Workplace leadership: Managers must ensure safe conditions, fair wages, and restorative care when employees are harmed. • Parental authority: Discipline serves growth, never venting anger (Ephesians 6:4). • Civil governance: Laws should distinguish intent, ensure due process, and uphold human dignity. • Personal conduct: When our actions injure others—physically, financially, emotionally—God expects restitution and repentance (Luke 19:8-9). Affirming the value of every person • The passage limits harm, pointing forward to the gospel where Christ becomes the Servant who suffers unjustly (Isaiah 53:5). • In Him “there is neither slave nor free… for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28) • Accountability is finally to God: “Each of us will give an account of himself to God.” (Romans 14:12) Living it out • Examine power dynamics in your home, church, and workplace; choose stewardship over control. • When harm occurs, act quickly to restore, compensate, and reconcile. • Advocate for systems that protect the vulnerable, reflecting God’s justice and mercy. |
    |