How does the concept of servitude in Exodus 21:2 connect to New Testament teachings? Setting the Scene “If you buy a Hebrew servant, he shall serve for six years, and in the seventh he is to go free without paying anything.” Key Features in Exodus 21:2 • Limited term—six years, then freedom in the seventh • Freedom is free—no ransom or repayment required • Protection of dignity—recognizes the servant as a brother, not mere property (compare Leviticus 25:39–41) Foreshadowing Christ’s Redemptive Work • Time-bound servitude pictures the temporary nature of Israel’s bondage to sin and law (Galatians 3:23–25). • The seventh-year release anticipates the “acceptable year of the Lord” declared by Jesus (Luke 4:18–19). • Freedom without payment prefigures salvation “without money and without cost” (Isaiah 55:1; Ephesians 2:8–9). From Bondage to Freedom in the New Covenant • John 8:36—“So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” • Romans 6:17–18—believers move from slavery to sin to slavery to righteousness. • 1 Corinthians 7:22—“He who was a slave when called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman.” These verses echo Exodus 21:2: Christ ends the term of bondage and sends His people out free. The New Testament Call to Voluntary Servanthood • Mark 10:45—“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve…” • Philippians 2:5–7—Christ “emptied Himself, taking the form of a servant.” • Galatians 5:13—“Serve one another in love.” Once freed, believers willingly become servants of Christ and of one another, mirroring the bond-servant who chose lifelong service out of love (Exodus 21:5–6). Practical Takeaways • Value every person: God safeguards dignity in both covenants. • Rest in Christ’s finished work: freedom is granted, not earned. • Serve freely: liberation from sin empowers joyful, voluntary service. • Look ahead: the rhythm of release points to the ultimate Jubilee in Christ’s return (Revelation 21:5). |
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